What are the main factors associated with root caries?

Area of Science:

• Dental Public Health
• Geriatric Dentistry
• Cariology

Background:

• Root caries is a significant oral health concern, particularly in aging populations.
• Identifying modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors is crucial for effective prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and qualitatively analyze observational studies investigating risk factors associated with root caries.
• To synthesize current evidence on the prevalence and determinants of root caries.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across major databases (Medline, EMBASE, PubMed, Scopus) from 1990 to 2018.
• Observational studies with >100 participants, statistical analysis of root caries, and in vivo data were included.
• Methodological quality was assessed using the modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale; meta-analysis was precluded by study heterogeneity.

Main Results:

• Forty-four studies were qualitatively analyzed, revealing significant associations between root caries and tobacco use, low socioeconomic status, gingival recession, and poor oral hygiene.
• Older age groups also demonstrated a higher prevalence of root caries.
• Factors were categorized into sociodemographic, general health, fluoride exposure, and oral health behaviors and conditions.

Conclusions:

• Several factors are consistently associated with an increased risk of developing root caries.
• There is a need for more high-quality, longitudinal observational studies to strengthen the evidence base and inform public health interventions.