Materiały źródłowe

• #1 Caries Risk Assessment and Management | American Dental Association

  https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/caries-risk-assessment-and-management

  Dental caries, or tooth decay, is one of the most prevalent diseases in humans, affecting 97% of the population worldwide during their lifetimes. The term dental caries can be used to describe both the disease process and the lesion (noncavitated or cavitated) that is formed as a result of the disease process. One definition of caries is a biofilm-mediated, sugar-driven, multifactorial, dynamic disease that results in the phasic demineralization and remineralization of dental hard tissues. […] Systematic methods of caries detection, classification, and risk assessment, as well as prevention/risk management strategies, can help to reduce patient risk of developing advanced disease and may even arrest the disease process. […] Obvious caries lesions may be seen on simple visual clinical examination. Tactile methods, e.g., the use of an explorer or ball-tipped dental probe, provide adjunctive information on evidence of enamel roughness and softening of dentin, although there are concerns about the potential, when the probe is used under force, for iatrogenic damage to the enamel surface and promotion of caries progression.

• #2 Tooth decay – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tooth_decay

  Tooth decay, also known as caries, is the breakdown of teeth due to acids produced by bacteria. The resulting cavities may be a number of different colors, from yellow to black. Symptoms may include pain and difficulty eating. Complications may include inflammation of the tissue around the tooth, tooth loss and infection or abscess formation. Tooth regeneration is an ongoing stem cell-based field of study that aims to find methods to reverse the effects of decay; current methods are based on easing symptoms. […] The cause of cavities is acid from bacteria dissolving the hard tissues of the teeth (enamel, dentin and cementum). The acid is produced by the bacteria when they break down food debris or sugar on the tooth surface. Simple sugars in food are these bacteria’s primary energy source and thus a diet high in simple sugar is a risk factor. If mineral breakdown is greater than buildup from sources such as saliva, caries results. Risk factors include conditions that result in less saliva, such as diabetes mellitus, Sjgren syndrome and some medications.

• #3 Tooth Decay: MedlinePlus

  https://medlineplus.gov/toothdecay.html

  Tooth decay is damage to a tooth’s surface, or enamel. It happens when bacteria in your mouth make acids that attack the enamel. Tooth decay can lead to cavities (dental caries), which are holes in your teeth. If tooth decay is not treated, it can cause pain, infection, and even tooth loss. […] How are tooth decay and cavities diagnosed? Dentists usually find tooth decay and cavities by looking at your teeth and probing them with dental instruments. Your dentist will also ask if you have any symptoms. Sometimes you may need a dental x-ray. […] There are several treatments for tooth decay and cavities. Which treatment you get depends on how bad the problem is: […] If you have early tooth decay, a fluoride treatment can help the enamel to repair itself. […] If you have a typical cavity, your dentist will remove the decayed tooth tissue and then restore the tooth by filling it with a filling material.

• #4 Cavities and tooth decay – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-20352892

  Cavities and tooth decay are among the world’s most common health problems. […] If cavities aren’t treated, they get larger and affect deeper layers of your teeth. […] Tooth decay causes cavities. This is a process that occurs over time. […] The acids from bacteria remove minerals in your tooth’s hard, outer enamel. This erosion causes tiny openings or holes in the enamel the first stage of cavities. […] As tooth decay happens, the bacteria and acid move through your teeth to the inner tooth material (pulp) that contains nerves and blood vessels. […] Complications of cavities may include: Pain. […] When cavities and decay become serious, you may have: Pain that makes it hard to live your daily life. […] Good oral and dental hygiene can help keep you from getting cavities. […] Your dentist can recommend a schedule that’s best for you. […] If tooth decay is likely for example, because of a medical condition your dentist may recommend special antiseptic and disinfecting mouth rinses like chlorhexidine or other treatments to cut down on harmful bacteria in your mouth.

• #5 Cavities and tooth decay – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352898

  Cavities are decayed areas of your teeth that become tiny openings or holes. […] Your dentist usually can detect tooth decay by: Asking about tooth pain and sensitivity. Looking around inside your mouth and at your teeth. Probing your teeth with dental instruments to check for soft areas. Looking at dental X-rays, which can show where cavities and decay are. […] Your dentist also can tell you which of the three types of cavities you have: smooth surface, pit and fissure, or root.

• #6 Diagnosis and Treatment of Cavities | Stiles Dental Care

  https://www.medfordsmiles.com/2021/06/cavities-tooth-decay-treatment/

  To diagnose tooth decay, your dentist will take the following steps: […] – Ask about any issues with sensitivity or pain before the physical examination of your teeth and gums begins. […] – Conduct a visual inspection of your teeth, gums, and mouth for any easily visible signs of decay. […] – Thoroughly examine your mouth, teeth, and gums using specific dental instruments to probe for soft or sticky spaces and better see any darkened areas. […] – Take x-ray images to show the extent of any tooth decay found. […] – Make a determination as to what type of cavity you have. These can be either smooth surface cavities, pit, and fissure, or root-related decay. Root decay is commonly found in older adults experiencing recession of the gums. […] Once your dentist makes and confirms a cavity diagnosis, a treatment plan is developed to serve your individual best interests.

• #7 Cavities (Tooth Decay): Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10946-cavities

  Cavities are holes, or areas of tooth decay, that form in your teeth surfaces. […] Treatments include dental fillings, root canal therapy and tooth extraction. […] The sooner you treat a cavity, the better your chance for a predictable outcome and optimal oral health. […] A cavity is a hole in a tooth that develops from tooth decay. […] Cavities form when acids in your mouth wear down (erode) your tooths hard outer layer (enamel). […] Proper oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings can prevent cavities. […] Cavities can affect all layers of your tooth. […] There are five main tooth decay stages: […] During this first stage, you may notice small, white, chalky spots on your tooth. […] Left untreated, tooth decay progresses and continues to break down your enamel. […] At this point, cavities (holes) may become noticeable.

• #8 Tooth Decay Stages: 5 Stages and How to Treat Each

  https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/tooth-decay-stages

  Tooth decay can appear differently depending on the stage of severity. You may experience more symptoms, including pain and swollen lymph nodes, at later stages. […] Tooth decay is damage that occurs to your teeth, which can potentially result in cavities, dental abscesses, or even tooth loss. Its caused by the activity of certain species of bacteria that can live in dental plaque. […] Tooth decay occurs in several stages. Below, well explore each of these stages, discuss how tooth decay is treated, and give you some tips on how to prevent it from happening. […] Generally speaking, there are five stages of tooth decay. Lets examine them in more detail below. […] There are five stages of tooth decay. The earliest stage is often reversible, but later stages can cause permanent damage to an affected tooth.

• #9 Azthena logo with the word Azthena

  https://www.news-medical.net/health/Symptoms-and-Diagnosis-of-Tooth-Decay.aspx

  One of the most prominent symptoms of tooth decay is toothache. This, however, occurs only when the decay has progressed to an advanced stage and eaten away at the hard tooth enamel and into the inner pulp of the tooth where the blood vessels and nerves are contained. […] Early tooth decay is often symptom free and detectable only on routine dental checkups. Early stages of tooth decay are also easier to treat than later stages. […] Tooth decay can be diagnosed early on by way of routine dental examinations. The teeth are examined in detail for the early stages of tooth decay and plaque formation. The examination also includes a thorough check-up of the gums for evidence of gum involvement. […] A bitewing radiograph or X-ray may also be used to detect tooth decay. Such X-rays can help detect small lesions of tooth decay that have not yet caused cavities or holes. […] An X-ray may be used to identify the type of cavity which include pit cavities that occur in the molars and may quickly affect the whole tooth; the smooth surface cavity that occurs over the flat side-surface of the teeth; and the root cavity which occurs in the root of tooth below the gum line.

• #10 Diagnosis and Treatment of Cavities & Tooth Decay

  https://www.westervilledental.com/cavities-tooth-decay-diagnosis-and-treatment/

  Treatment for cavities, also known as tooth decay or dental caries, always begins with an accurate diagnosis. The permanently damaged enamel associated with tooth decay may not be visible to the naked eye, especially when the cavity is in its early stages, so diagnosis takes an experienced eye and advanced tools. […] An accurate diagnosis and timely treatment of tooth decay is essential for a good outcome. […] Diagnosing tooth decay is a rather straightforward process that our dentists can do in a single appointment; we often detect cavities when we perform regular dental checkups, and in many cases, we find signs of tooth decay before patients even feel symptoms. To diagnose tooth decay, we assess your symptoms, examine your teeth, and if we suspect a cavity, perform an x-ray. We use the information we gather in our diagnosis to create a treatment plan.

• #11 Diagnosis of Occlusal Caries: Part I. Conventional Methods

  https://www.cda-adc.ca/jcda/vol-67/issue-8/454.html

  Accurate diagnosis of the presence, extent and activity of a disease process is a fundamental requirement in health care. The optimal approach is to attempt to identify high risk of caries before disease occurs, to allow initiation of appropriate preventive services. Fissure sealants are indicated for occlusal surfaces at risk. If sealants have not been used, a secondary approach is to diagnose the caries early, before operative treatment is indicated, which would again allow preventive intervention. Enamel caries, both occlusal and proximal, can generally be managed without operative intervention. There is consensus that the minimum stage at which surgical intervention is indicated is the carious disease of dentin. […] Accurate diagnosis of dentinal decay is more challenging on occlusal than on proximal surfaces. The diagnosis of occlusal decay is highly subjective, and there is considerable variation in opinion among clinicians as to appropriate diagnosis and treatment of early carious lesions on occlusal surfaces. The inherent diagnostic uncertainties have led to differing treatment decisions by clinicians.

• #12 Caries Risk Assessment and Management | American Dental Association

  https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/caries-risk-assessment-and-management

  Dental caries, or tooth decay, is one of the most prevalent diseases in humans, affecting 97% of the population worldwide during their lifetimes. The term dental caries can be used to describe both the disease process and the lesion (noncavitated or cavitated) that is formed as a result of the disease process. One definition of caries is a biofilm-mediated, sugar-driven, multifactorial, dynamic disease that results in the phasic demineralization and remineralization of dental hard tissues. […] Systematic methods of caries detection, classification, and risk assessment, as well as prevention/risk management strategies, can help to reduce patient risk of developing advanced disease and may even arrest the disease process. […] Obvious caries lesions may be seen on simple visual clinical examination. Tactile methods, e.g., the use of an explorer or ball-tipped dental probe, provide adjunctive information on evidence of enamel roughness and softening of dentin, although there are concerns about the potential, when the probe is used under force, for iatrogenic damage to the enamel surface and promotion of caries progression.

• #13 Detection, Diagnosis, and Monitoring of Early Caries: The Future of Individualized Dental Care

  https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4418/13/24/3649

  The management of dental caries has also shifted over the past decade. Instead of basing the treatment decision entirely on radiographic lesion depth as it was described earlier, the patient’s risk profile, enamel surface integrity, and lesion activity are now the main focus of modern treatment strategies. […] The detection of carious lesions involves identifying the indications of dental caries. These lesions can be clinically detected at various stages, such as non-cavitated, micro-cavitated, and cavitated. […] The use of a sharp dental probe during clinical examinations has been criticized for over a decade as an inappropriate tool for assessing dental lesions. […] Visual examinations aimed at detecting non-cavitated lesions reportedly exhibit varying sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic inconsistencies among examiners.

• #14 Diagnosis of Occlusal Caries: Part I. Conventional Methods

  https://www.cda-adc.ca/jcda/vol-67/issue-8/454.html

  Accurate diagnosis of the presence or absence of occlusal caries remains challenging for the clinician. Visual and tactile methods alone, in the absence of cavitation, generally have relatively poor diagnostic capability for occlusal surfaces under general practice conditions. […] The sensitivity of visual inspection can be augmented with radiography. Findings on bite-wing radiographs are useful indicators of dentinal decay on occlusal surfaces, and it is well recognized that the prevalence of occlusal caries may be underestimated without such imaging. […] Accurate diagnosis of occlusal dentinal caries is challenging unless cavitation or radiographic evidence is present. As radiographs tend to reveal only significant caries, there is a need for diagnostic methods that can more accurately detect dentinal involvement at an earlier stage. The accurate diagnosis of the presence or absence of disease is paramount for appropriate care. More precise methods for definitive diagnosis of lesion presence, activity and size would significantly improve caries management decisions with respect to operative intervention or preventive care.

• #15 Dental Caries Diagnostic Testing – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK574510/

  On radiographs, carious lesions appear as low-density areas under the tooth structure. This area represents demineralization and dissolving of hard tissue. […] Various radiographic techniques can be used for caries detection, but posterior bitewing, periapical, and panoramic views are the most popular. […] Although still controversial, caries detector dyes are used by many dentists to aid caries removal and diagnose occlusal caries. […] In dentistry, transillumination refers to the transmission of light through dental tissues to aid in caries diagnosis. […] Newer technologies in the dental field, including fluorescence, electrical conductance, and lasers, allow professionals to detect caries at an earlier stage. […] A laser fluorescence caries detection device is a non-invasive laser method that allows the early detection of dental caries.

• #16 Do I Have a Cavity? How to Tell at Home

  https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-tell-if-you-have-a-cavity-8414814

  Tooth decay is caused by bacteria in the mouth that eats away at tooth enamel. This can lead to a cavity (a hole in the tooth). A cavity in your tooth doesn’t always have symptoms at first, but as it grows into the deeper layers of your tooth, you may feel it. […] This article explains how cavities look and feel, what happens if they go untreated, and how dentists diagnose them. […] Warning signs of a cavity include: White spots on the teeth, Spots that turn darker shades of gray, brown, or black, Continually getting food trapped between your teeth. […] Dental X-rays can catch early cavities between teeth and those not yet visible on the tooth’s surface. Researchers have found that X-rays increase the diagnosis of hidden cavities by nearly 10 times. […] While cavities offer some visual signs, they are not always on visible parts of your teeth. Cavities are sometimes in between teeth and in the back of your mouth. To be sure, you’ll need to see a dentist, who will visually examine your teeth and, if necessary, do an X-ray.

• #17 Cavities – Mouth and Dental Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version

  https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/mouth-and-dental-disorders/tooth-disorders/cavities

  Cavities are decayed areas in the teeth, the result of a process that gradually dissolves a tooths hard outer surface (enamel) and progresses toward the interior. […] Dentists can detect cavities by examining the teeth and taking x-rays periodically. […] If a cavity is treated before it starts to hurt, the chance of damage to the pulp is reduced, and more of the tooth structure is saved. To detect cavities early, a dentist inquires about pain, examines the teeth, probes the teeth with dental instruments, and may take x-rays. […] If decay is halted before the enamel surface breaks down, the enamel can actually repair itself (remineralization) if people use fluoride. […] Once decay reaches the dentin and causes an actual hole in the tooth, dentists drill out the decayed material inside the tooth and then fill the resulting space with a filling (restoration).

• #18 Laser Decay Diagnosis | Bangor Dental Associates | Bangor ME

  https://www.bangordentalassociates.com/treatment/dental-restorations/laser-decay-diagnosis

  Diagnodent.Laser technology is becoming quite commonplace in a wide variety of areas throughout the healthcare industry; however, are you aware that we can now use it to detect tooth decay? The truth is that using a small, handheld device, we can detect tooth decay that is not yet visible and would otherwise be undiagnosed by conventional methods alone. […] In fact, traditional methods of detecting tooth decay are much more accurate and efficient when laser technology is included by your dentist. You can expect: dramatically improved early cavity detection, reduced size and possibly number of fillings that might be needed, thus possibly lowering the cost of dental treatments, reduced chances of unnecessary exploration of teeth that are suspected to have cavities. […] Using this noninvasive technology, we scan your teeth to examine your tooth structure. Laser cavity detection is based on the fact that healthy tooth structure reflects light, or „fluoresces,” differently than does decayed tooth structure. Healthy teeth will have little-to-no fluorescence while teeth with decay display with a higher level of fluorescence. And the higher the fluorescence, the more advanced the tooth decay.

• #19 Laser Decay Diagnostics – Dentist Peterborough, NH | Peavy Family Dental Care

  https://www.peavyfamilydentalcare.com/articles/premium_education/915297-laser-decay-diagnostics

  Using lasers, dentists can detect tooth decay that is not yet visible and would otherwise be undiagnosed using traditional methods. […] Laser cavity detection is based on the fact that healthy tooth structure reflects light, or fluoresces, differently than does decayed tooth structure. Teeth with decay will display a higher level of fluorescence, and the higher the fluorescence, the more advanced the tooth decay. Laser decay technology also puts out an audio signal when it finds areas of decay. […] Prior to using a laser scanner, dentists depended upon X-rays and using fine picks to identify cavities. Not only is this process uncomfortable, its also harder to diagnose decay in areas with limited visibility, like underneath the gum line. Laser technology provides about a 90% accuracy rate for identifying suspicious areas and cavities.

• #20 Moreno Valley, CA Dentist

  https://www.drjoshidental.com/articles/premium_education/915297-laser-decay-diagnostics

  Using lasers, dentists can detect tooth decay that is not yet visible and would otherwise be undiagnosed using traditional methods. […] Laser cavity detection is based on the fact that healthy tooth structure reflects light, or fluoresces, differently than does decayed tooth structure. Teeth with decay will display a higher level of fluorescence, and the higher the fluorescence, the more advanced the tooth decay. […] Laser technology provides about a 90% accuracy rate for identifying suspicious areas and cavities. […] If tooth decay is caught early enough, you might not even need a filling at all, meaning laser technology not only improves early cavity detection, but reduces the size and number of fillings you might need over time.

• #21 KaVo DIAGNOdent pen | KaVo Dental

  https://www.kavo.com/en-us/products/diagnostics/diagnodent-pen

  Early caries detection with radiation-free laser fluorescence technology […] For the early detection of tooth decay in the occlusal and proximal areas […] Diagnostic reliability proven in numerous clinical studies […] The LASER fluorescence technology of the DIAGNOdent pen provides reliable results and supports safe and reliable caries diagnosis. […] This allows for early detection of fissure and proximal caries. […] The DIAGNOdent pen, along with a clinical evaluation and the consideration of the individual caries risk factors, enhance early identification of caries and diagnosis. […] Based on the favourable reproducibility of its values, the DIAGNOdent pen is an outstanding instrument for detecting the development of lesions in regular examinations.

• #22 The Reason Why Early Diagnosis of Tooth Decay is Important | OnlyMyHealth

  https://www.onlymyhealth.com/early-diagnosis-tooth-decay-life-1298540564

  Tooth decay is the most common tooth problems that people suffer from. Your dentist can diagnose early changes in your teeth before a cavity develops. If you have been diagnosed with tooth decay by your dentist, then you will need to go through a series of treatments to cure it. […] How does a dentist find early changes in your teeth that can cause cavities? […] Digital Imaging Fiber-Optic Trans-Illumination (DIFOTI): This technology uses computers to make images of a tooth while a light is shined behind it. […] Digital Imaging DIAGNOdent: This technology uses laser to collect information. […] Quantitative Light-Induced Fluorescence (QLF): QLF is the newest technology.

• #23 Detection, Diagnosis, and Monitoring of Early Caries: The Future of Individualized Dental Care

  https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4418/13/24/3649

  The use of fluorescence in caries detection and monitoring has demonstrated an estimated sensitivity of 0.70 at a fixed median specificity of 0.78. […] The development of near-infrared transillumination for caries detection started around 1995. This method uses near-infrared wavelength interactions with the dental substance allowing visual discrimination between healthy and demineralized tissue. […] Near-infrared transillumination empowers clinicians to detect proximal lesions that might escape clinical observation and distinguish between lesions confined to the enamel and those that have progressed to the enamel–dentin junction. […] The integration of advanced technologies such as near-infrared transillumination (NIRT), fluorescence-based imaging, and other modalities holds promising potential for optimizing patient-centered oral health care.

• #24 Light-based tests for the detection and diagnosis of early tooth decay | Cochrane

  https://www.cochrane.org/CD013855/ORAL_light-based-tests-detection-and-diagnosis-early-tooth-decay

  In this example illumination devices produce a relatively high proportion of false-negative results, whereby patients do not receive treatment for early tooth decay, for example, high fluoride toothpaste or oral health advice and guidance from the dentist, as they should. […] Optical coherence tomography (OCT) shows potential as a device to detect early/enamel caries but more high-quality research and development are required as OCT is not currently available to general dental practitioners. […] Of the devices evaluated, OCT appears to show the most potential, with superior sensitivity to NIR and fibre-optic devices. […] The cornerstone of caries detection and diagnosis is a visual and tactile dental examination, although alternative approaches are available. […] To estimate the diagnostic test accuracy of different illumination tests for the detection and diagnosis of enamel caries in children or adults.

• #25 Light-based tests for the detection and diagnosis of early tooth decay | Cochrane

  https://www.cochrane.org/CD013855/ORAL_light-based-tests-detection-and-diagnosis-early-tooth-decay

  We included diagnostic accuracy study designs that compared the use of illumination-based devices with a reference standard (histology, enhanced visual examination with or without radiographs, or operative excavation). […] The summary estimate across all the included illumination devices was sensitivity 0.75 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.62 to 0.85) and specificity 0.87 (95% CI 0.82 to 0.92), with a diagnostic odds ratio of 21.52 (95% CI 10.89 to 42.48). […] In a cohort of 1000 tooth surfaces with a prevalence of enamel caries of 57%, this would result in 142 tooth surfaces being classified as disease free when enamel caries was truly present (false negatives), and 56 tooth surfaces being classified as diseased in the absence of enamel caries (false positives). […] Further analysis indicated a difference in the sensitivity of the different devices (Chi2(2) = 31.24, P 0.01) with a higher sensitivity of 0.94 (95% CI 0.88 to 0.97) for OCT compared to NIR 0.58 (95% CI 0.46 to 0.68) and FOTI/DIFOTI 0.47 (95% CI 0.35 to 0.59), but no meaningful difference in specificity (Chi2(2) = 3.47, P = 0.18). […] We rated the certainty of the evidence as low and downgraded two levels in total due to avoidable and unavoidable study limitations in the design and conduct of studies, indirectness arising from the in vitro studies, and imprecision of the estimates.

• #26 Dental Caries Diagnostic Testing – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK574510/

  Light-induced fluorescence can identify incipient caries’ demineralization and remineralization progress when treated with a therapeutic agent, like fluoridated mouthwash. […] The dentistry field is progressing towards a more conservative approach when treating dental caries. Newer diagnostic technology can detect initial stages of demineralization, allowing non-invasive intervention as early as possible to prevent further damage; this has invaluable repercussions on the oral health of the individual and broader community.

• #27 Caries Risk Assessment and Management | American Dental Association

  https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/caries-risk-assessment-and-management

  Risk assessment is a valuable tool for the prevention and management of dental caries. Dentistry has entered an era of personalized care in which targeting care to individuals or groups based on their risk has been advocated. […] The International Caries Detection and Assessment System is an evidence-based, preventively oriented strategy that classifies the visual appearance of a lesion (i.e., detection, whether or not disease is present), characterization/monitoring of the lesion once detected (i.e., assessment), and culminates in diagnosis. […] The classification criteria, and associated estimates of caries activity, are based upon the histological extension of lesions spreading into tooth tissue. […] ADA Caries Risk Assessment forms categorize a patients overall risk of developing caries, based on history and clinical examination.

• #28 Do I Have a Cavity? How to Tell at Home

  https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-tell-if-you-have-a-cavity-8414814

  Dentists use a visual inspection to determine if a cavity is present on a tooth. The International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) is a clinical scoring system that measures surface changes and the depth of cavities. […] An X-ray is the most definitive way to diagnose a cavity. X-rays allow dentists to see through layers of teeth to determine how severe a cavity is. This can inform their treatment plan. However, X-rays are not foolproof, and they sometimes underestimate the depth of a cavity. […] If you suspect a cavity, the best thing to do is make an appointment with a dentist. They can determine how advanced the cavity is and develop a treatment plan.

• #29 Dental Caries Diagnostic Testing – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK574510/

  Dental caries continue to be one of the most prevalent chronic infections worldwide. Luckily, many diagnostic tests have been developed in the last century to detect the disease sooner rather than later, allowing for prompt intervention that will eventually tackle the caries matter. […] To provide the most accurate and efficient treatment, dental practitioners should combine various diagnostic tests. A visual-tactile examination allows for an initial diagnosis later supplemented and verified by the tool that best fits the case. Diagnostic tests can be further separated into qualitative and quantitative according to the type of information provided. Radiographs are commonly used as the first aid in diagnosis after the clinical examination and offer the practitioner a qualitative diagnosis.

• #30 Diagnosis of Occlusal Caries: Part I. Conventional Methods

  https://www.cda-adc.ca/jcda/vol-67/issue-8/454.html

  Accurate diagnosis of the presence or absence of disease is a fundamental requirement in health care. The diagnosis of non-overt occlusal decay is challenging and can be highly subjective, and its inherent uncertainties can lead to widely differing treatment decisions. The development of more sensitive, specific and reproducible diagnostic tools for occlusal surfaces would contribute greatly to more precise planning of preventive and operative therapy. The purpose of this 2-part paper is to review current knowledge concerning conventional and new diagnostic methods for occlusal caries. Part I looks at established diagnostic methods for occlusal surfaces. Conventional visual, tactile and radiographic examinations provide less-than-ideal diagnostic sensitivity. Neither fissure discolouration (black or brown) nor the use of an explorer has been shown to improve diagnostic accuracy. However, the combination of careful visual examination with optimal radiographic examination affords better diagnostic performance. The best visual indicators involve precise features associated with the presence of disease, such as opaque fissure demineralization and the presence and extent of localized breakdown of the enamel. For best results, teeth should be clean, thoroughly dry and well illuminated.

• #31 Caries – Dental Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition

  https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/dental-disorders/common-dental-disorders/caries

  Caries is tooth decay, commonly called cavities. Diagnosis is based on inspection, probing of the enamel surface with a fine metal instrument, and dental radiographs. […] Routine, frequent clinical evaluation (every 3 to 12 months depending on a patient’s caries risk as assessed by a dentist) identifies early caries at a time when minimal intervention prevents progression. […] Radiographs are still most important for detecting caries, determining the depth of involvement, and identifying caries under existing restorations. […] Treatment of incipient caries confined to the enamel may be attempted with remineralization through improved home care (brushing and flossing), cleanings, prescriptions for high-fluoride toothpastes, and multiple fluoride applications at the dental office. […] Treatments of caries that have entered the dentin involve drilling out the decayed area and restoring the defect with amalgam, composite resin, or glass ionomer.

• #32 Detection, Diagnosis, and Monitoring of Early Caries: The Future of Individualized Dental Care

  https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4418/13/24/3649

  The assessment of caries lesion severity offers a way to categorize the progression of net mineral loss, starting with small lesions and advancing to greater levels of tooth damage that can extend through the enamel and dentin and even involve the dental pulp. […] The assessment of caries lesion activity aims to distinguish between active and inactive lesions, facilitating optimal care planning by dentists with an emphasis on halting active lesions. […] Evaluating a lesion’s activity will take into consideration multiple factors such as color, location, and texture, as well as some clinical aspects not directly related to the lesion itself. […] The focus on the biofilm and its complexity started in the late 1980s, leading to the actual understanding of the important concept of dysbiosis and the understanding of caries as a non-communicable disease today.

• #33 Oral diagnosis and treatment planning: part 2. Dental caries and assessment of risk | British Dental Journal

  https://www.nature.com/articles/sj.bdj.2012.615

  Dental caries or tooth decay may be defined as a dynamic process causing progressive destruction of hard tooth substance (enamel, dentine and cementum) involving demineralisation of the inorganic portion of the tooth, and dissolution of the organic portion. […] The diagnosis of initial lesions remains a challenge for practitioners and, despite numerous studies, the assessment of future caries risk is still based largely on a patient’s past caries experience. […] The past caries experience of the patient is probably the most frequently used factor in the assessment of caries risk. In comparison to other predictors, past caries experience was the strongest single predictor. […] Caries diagnosis requires clean, dry teeth, good lighting and good visual access. […] Initial demineralisation appears as an opacity or dull white spot lesion in the enamel, which is more easily detected when the tooth surfaces are dried for approximately five seconds.

• #34 Causes, Symptoms & Treatment of Dental Caries (Tooth Decay) – The Kingsley Clinic

  https://thekingsleyclinic.com/resources/causes-symptoms-treatment-of-dental-caries-tooth-decay/

  This article delves into its risk factors, symptoms, diagnostic tools, treatment approaches, and at-home care techniques to help readers better understand and manage this common condition. Early detection and treatment can help alleviate sensitivity and prevent further damage. Diagnosis involves a physical examination to check for swelling and pus drainage. X-rays can help pinpoint the location of the abscess and reveal any associated bone damage. A dentist can differentiate between the two through a visual examination and a review of the patient’s history. If discoloration or defects have been present since the teeth erupted, enamel hypoplasia is more likely. A dentist may perform a pulp vitality test to assess the health of the pulp. Abnormal responses to temperature or electrical stimuli indicate pulpitis. […] If you’re experiencing symptoms of tooth decay or need guidance on maintaining your oral health, our telemedicine practice is here to help. Schedule a virtual consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, brighter smile.

• #35 Tooth decay: Symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention

  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/tooth-decay

  Tooth decay causes the destruction of enamel, which is the hard outer surface of a tooth. […] Tooth decay, also known as dental caries or cavities, is a disease that causes the breakdown of tooth enamel. […] According to the American Dental Association (ADA), a tooth consists of three layers: Enamel is the hard outer layer that protects the inner layers of a tooth. […] Tooth decay can occur in varying degrees of severity. Damage from tooth decay can range from causing wear to the enamel to painful abscesses within the pulp of the tooth. […] Symptoms of tooth decay can vary depending on the severity of the damage caused. […] According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), some people in the early stages of tooth decay may feel no symptoms. […] An article in the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) state that tooth decay occurs due to a buildup of plaque on a tooth.

• #36 Early Detection of Cavities: A Comprehensive Oral Examination for Tooth Decay

  https://www.ddslivonia.com/early-detection-of-cavities-a-comprehensive-oral-examination-for-tooth-decay/

  Oral health is an important element of our overall well-being, and tooth decay is one of the most prevalent dental issues people experience. Cavity detection in its early phases is essential for effective treatment and the avoidance of future issues. […] Early detection is important; for more information, or to schedule your next appointment, give our dentist in Livonia a call. […] The first line of defense against tooth decay is regular dental check-ups. A full oral examination entails more than simply a visual check; it includes a thorough assessment of the entire dental cavity. […] Advanced technologies, such as laser fluorescence, can aid in the early diagnosis of cavities. […] Detecting cavities early allows for less invasive treatments, preserving more of the natural tooth structure.

• #37 Early Detection of Cavities: A Comprehensive Oral Examination for Tooth Decay

  https://www.ddslivonia.com/early-detection-of-cavities-a-comprehensive-oral-examination-for-tooth-decay/

  Early management helps to prevent decay from progressing into deeper layers of the tooth, avoiding complications such as infections and the need for root canal therapy. […] Cavities in their early stages can often be less expensive to treat than advanced decay, which might require significant restorative procedures. […] Oral examinations in Livonia is an effective approach, but the ultimate goal is to eliminate cavities entirely. […] Fluoride treatments can be recommended by dentists, particularly for people who are susceptible to cavities.

• #38 Laser Decay Diagnostics – Dentist Peterborough, NH | Peavy Family Dental Care

  https://www.peavyfamilydentalcare.com/articles/premium_education/915297-laser-decay-diagnostics

  If tooth decay is caught early enough, you might not even need a filling at all, meaning laser technology not only improves early cavity detection, but reduces the size and number of fillings you might need over time. This means that you will be better able to preserve your natural teeth and avoid the need for expensive dental treatments.

• #39 Diagnosis and Treatment of Cavities | Stiles Dental Care

  https://www.medfordsmiles.com/2021/06/cavities-tooth-decay-treatment/

  Whether found during a regular exam or emergency appointment, treatment for your cavity will depend on its severity. If found early, a fluoride treatment may be all you need. Otherwise, treatment options vary and include: […] – Restoration Fillings; The most common treatment for tooth decay is the use of fillings. Common materials that make up these fillings include teeth-colored composite resins, porcelain, or a combination of materials (referred to as dental amalgam). […] – Tooth Extractions: With severe decay, your best option may be to remove the tooth altogether. While avoiding this is the preferred option, sometimes it will be necessary depending on your situation. […] – Dental Crowns: If a tooth is weakened by the cavity or includes extensive levels of decay, you may require a crown. This procedure and treatment require the removal of all decay and other parts of your natural tooth. A custom-fit cap or covering is then put in place. There are various options for the type of material a crown can be, ranging from porcelain fused to metal to all gold.

• #40 Cavities (Tooth Decay): Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10946-cavities

  Root canal therapy relieves pain from advanced tooth decay. […] If root canal therapy isn’t possible, your healthcare provider may recommend tooth extraction. […] Proper oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, can get rid of plaque, acids and cavity-causing bacteria. […] When tooth decay goes untreated for too long, you can lose a large portion of your tooth and need an extraction. […] Most people with cavities don’t experience any long-term problems. […] Fluoride treatments can stop tooth decay in its early stages. […] If you think you have a cavity, call a dentist right away. […] Small tooth cavities turn into large cavities over time. […] Early treatment is essential for long-term oral health. […] If a cavity is painful, it means the decay has spread to the deeper layers of your tooth. […] At this stage, you’ll need a dentist to repair the cavity. […] If you have signs of a cavity, don’t hesitate to see a dentist for care. […] They’ll check your tooth and recommend the best course of action.

• #41 American Dental Association Releases New Tooth Decay Treatment Guideline | American Dental Association

  https://www.ada.org/about/press-releases/american-dental-association-releases-new-tooth-decay-treatment-guideline

  A new American Dental Association (ADA) clinical practice guideline suggests conservative methods to treat tooth decay in primary and permanent teeth could lead to better outcomes when used with common restorative materials like fillings or caps. […] The guideline contains 16 recommendations regarding treatment of moderate and advanced tooth decay in primary and permanent teeth that have not received endodontic treatment, such as a root canal. […] It indicates conservative carious tissue removal (CTR) in which a dentist removes infected tissue while preserving as much of the original tooth structure as possible is less likely to result in adverse outcomes like nerve exposure or a failed filling. […] The recommendations also identify selective CTR as an effective treatment option in most cases of moderate or advanced decay in primary and permanent teeth.

• #42 American Dental Association Releases New Tooth Decay Treatment Guideline | American Dental Association

  https://www.ada.org/about/press-releases/american-dental-association-releases-new-tooth-decay-treatment-guideline

  The bacteria left behind under the new filling or cap no longer has what it needs to multiply, which stops tooth decay. […] Additionally, the guideline affirms the efficacy of the most common restorative materials for treating moderate or advanced tooth decay, such as tooth-colored fillings, silver-colored fillings (amalgam) or preformed caps in children. […] While research had already confirmed that selectively removing decayed tissue is an effective approach to treating early tooth decay, dentists needed an evidence-based guideline to provide them with a range of treatment choices for patients with moderate to advanced tooth decay. […] These recommendations can now inform restorative care strategies in the U.S. and on a global level.

• #43 Cavities: Diagnosis and treatment

  https://eastrosedental.com/en/cavitiestooth-decay—diagnosis-and-treatment.html

  Additionally, some foods that can help you fight against tooth decay are: Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, Calcium-rich foods, Unsweetened green or black tea, Water with fluoride, Sugarless chewing gum. […] You and your family should have regular dental check-ups every 6 months to promptly detect oral diseases if any and choose the proper treatment.

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