Dental caries
Dr. Mina
shimohammadi
Epidemiology
Epidemiology is defined as the study of the distribution and
determinants of health-related states or events in specified
populations.
Key components of epidemiology include:
Distribution Determinants Application
Analyzing who Investigating the Applying findings to
is affected by causes and risk develop strategies for
diseases, when, factors disease prevention
and where. associated with and health promotion
health issues.
Main methodologies
1. Observational: This approach involves monitoring populations to identify
patterns of disease occurrence without manipulating any variables
- Descriptive Epidemiology: This method focuses on the frequency and
distribution of diseases concerning time, place, and person.
- Analytical Epidemiology: This method investigates the associations
between exposures and health outcomes.
2. Experimental: This approach includes interventional studies where
researchers actively manipulate variables to determine their effect on health
outcomes.
- randomized controlled trial (RCT)
Dental
caries
Dental caries
Dental caries, also known as tooth decay
or cavities, is defined as a chronic
infectious disease characterized by the
breakdown of tooth structure due to
acids produced by cariogenic bacteria,
mainly Streptococcus mutans
WHITE SPOT
The first stage of dental
caries is the white spot.
At this stage, the caries is
reversible with improved oral
hygiene and dietary changes.
Etiology of
Dental Caries
Dental caries results from a
dynamic interaction between
microbial activity, dietary habits,
saliva composition, tooth
structure, and various
environmental factors.
Common areas of dental
caries include:
Pit and
Interproxim Cervical
Fissure
al Caries Caries
Caries
The signs of dental caries differ
based on which layer of the
tooth is affected: enamel,
Enam Denti
dentin, or pulp.
el n Pulp
1. White Spot 1. Increased 1. Severe
Lesion Sensitivity Pain
2. Color 2. Pain 2. Abscess
Change
3. Visible
3. Surface Cavities
Texture
Causes of Dental Caries
and Periodontal
diseases.
Dental Periodontal
Caries diseases
1. Bacterial Activity 1. Plaque Accumulation
2. Diet 2. Poor Oral Hygiene
3. Poor Oral Hygiene 3. Smoking and Tobacco
4. Salivary Factors Use
5. Tooth Structure 4. Genetic Factors
6. Environmental 5. Nutritional Lacks
Factors 6. Hormonal Changes
Methods for Preventing Dental
Caries
●Regular ●Regular
Brushing: At Dental
least twice a day Check-ups
with fluoride
toothpaste. ●Fissure
sealant
●Flossing
●Fluoridetrapy
Fissure
Sealant
- A fissure sealant is a thin,
protective layer applied to the
grooves and pits on the occlusal
surfaces of back teeth (molars and
premolars).
- Fissure sealants are typically
made from a resin material that
bonds to the tooth surface,
creating a flat, easy-to-clean
surface.
- Some sealants may also contain
fluoride to provide additional
protection against decay.
The benefits of Fluoride
Therapy
● Reduction of Dental Caries
● Enhancement of Remineralization
● Inhibition of Bacterial Activity
● Long-term Benefits
● Cost-Effectiveness
● Support for Special Populations
Topical Fluoride Therapy
● Topical Fluoride Therapy:
○ Professional Topical Fluoride :Fluoride Varnish,
Fluoride Gel, Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)
○ Home Use Topical Fluoride: fluoride toothpaste,
mouth wash, and gels
● Systemic Fluoride Therapy:
○ Water Fluoridation: add fluoride to public water
(about 0.7 ppm)
○ Fluoride Supplements: tablets or drops
How to Use Dental Floss
1. Prepare the Floss: Take about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm)
of dental floss.
2. Wrap It: Wrap the ends around your middle fingers, leaving
a few cms in between.
3. Hold It: Hold the floss tightly with your thumbs and index
fingers.
4. Slide Between Teeth: Gently slide the floss between your
teeth.
5. Make a C Shape: Curve the floss around one tooth and
gently slide it up and down.
6. Move to Next Tooth: Use a clean section of floss for each
tooth and repeat.
Thank you…
