[Progression and stagnation of caries]

When carious lesions are forming, it is possible that they progress rapidly, but slow progress up to complete stagnation also may occur. Which mode of development prevails depends on the demineralization potential in the oral cavity, but also on remineralizing factors. Infrequent sugar pulses and careful plaque removal diminish the cariogenic forces; stagnation of lesion formation and preservation of integrity are favoured by ample salivary secretions, high mineral content of the diet and lifelong frequent availability of small amounts of fluoride.