Changing concepts in cariology: forty years on

Area of Science:

• Dental science
• Microbiology
• Preventive dentistry

Background:

• Dental caries is a biofilm-mediated disease influenced by pH fluctuations.
• Caries lesions can be arrested or controlled through effective biofilm management.
• Mechanical disruption of biofilm with fluoride toothpaste is the primary treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of patient-led biofilm control in caries management.
• To advocate for the non-operative treatment of caries.
• To emphasize the role of dental professionals in patient education.

Main Methods:

• Focus on mechanical biofilm disruption using fluoride toothpaste.
• Patient education on plaque control techniques.
• Integration of non-operative caries control into dental practice.

Main Results:

• Informed patients can effectively control caries progression.
• Non-operative caries treatment, centered on plaque control, is effective.
• Adequate plaque control is essential alongside operative treatments.

Conclusions:

• Current remuneration schemes in England and Wales hinder biological approaches to caries control.
• Dental professionals' role is to advise and empower patients in caries management.
• Non-operative caries treatment, including patient education, deserves recognition and payment.