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Multifactorial modeling for root caries prediction: 3-year follow-up results
A Scheinin1, K Pienihäkkinen, J Tiekso
1Department of Cariology, University of Turku, Finland.
Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology
|April 1, 1994
Summary
This study developed accurate caries tests. A combination of past root caries experience, Lactobacilli, and Candida levels effectively predicted future root caries risk in adults.
Area of Science:
- Dental Research
- Cariology
- Preventive Dentistry
Background:
- Caries development and progression remain significant oral health concerns.
- Accurate diagnostic tests are crucial for effective caries prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate predictive tests for root surface caries.
- To identify key microbial and clinical factors associated with root caries increment.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study of 96 adults (mean age 62 years) over 3 years.
- Oral examinations included coronal and root caries assessment (WHO classification).
- Salivary tests assessed mutans streptococci, lactobacilli, Candida, secretion rate, buffer effect, sucrase activity, and plaque quantitation.
Main Results:
- Significant associations were found between prospective root caries increment and several salivary/plaque tests.
- Multifactorial modeling identified Past Root Caries Experience (OR 12.8), Lactobacilli (OR 8.6), and Candida (OR 2.8) as key predictors.
- Screening with "two or three positive tests" showed 77.1% accuracy and a relative risk of 3.3 for root caries.
Conclusions:
- A combination of specific microbial and historical factors can accurately predict future root caries.
- These findings support the development of targeted caries risk assessment tools for clinical practice.