Root caries: some clinical aspects

This paper has discussed some aspects of root surface caries which are of special relevance to the clinician. Epidemiological studies have suggested that root caries is not inevitable after gingival recession, but a small number of patients show a propensity for development of new lesions. Several risk factors have been identified. Thorough prophylaxis is essential for accurate diagnosis of root caries lesions, and radiographs can identify lesions which would otherwise be difficult to detect. The activity of any particular lesion can only be evaluated by observation at successive examinations. Fluoridated water may have a role in the prevention of root caries, but the evidence is not conclusive. Other forms of topical fluoride have been demonstrated to be effective. Cleansable and accessible lesions can be arrested with good oral hygiene and topical fluoride therapy. Teeth which require restoration may be restored with GIC, but limitations of the material make this unsuitable for all but readily accessible lesions, or where margins are supragingival. Clinicians should not rely on the fluoride released from GIC in situations where another material may provide a better restoration; in many situations, amalgam may be the material of choice. The longevity of bonded amalgam restorations has not been established, and conventional methods of amalgam retention remain a requirement of every restoration.