Caries

• What causes caries to develop?

  Demineralisation of enamel
• At what pH does enamel begin to demineralise?

  5.5 pH
• What leads to the drop in pH in the oral environment?

  Increase of acid
• How do bacteria contribute to caries development?

  They feed on carbohydrates, releasing acid
• How does frequent sugar consumption affect caries prevalence?

  It increases the number of acid attacks
• Why are sticky foods problematic for caries?

  They can get stuck in pits and fissures
• What is the recommended limit for acid attacks in a day?

  No more than 4 acid attacks
• Why is it important to allow time for enamel remineralisation?

  To prevent continuous demineralisation
• What should be done before brushing teeth at night?

  Wait at least 30 minutes after the last meal
• How does reduced salivary flow contribute to caries?

  It reduces the buffering effect against acids
• What role does a high sugar diet play in caries development?

  It increases the level of demineralisation
• What happens if teeth are not brushed at night?

  Plaque and sugars sit on teeth overnight
• How does poor oral hygiene (OH) affect caries risk?

  It increases bacterial load in the mouth
• Why is low socio-economic status a risk factor for caries?

  It correlates with poor education on oral health
• How does smoking contribute to caries risk?

  It reduces salivary flow and stains teeth
• What is the effect of low fluoride intake on caries risk?

  Teeth are less resistant to caries
• How does poor manual dexterity affect caries risk?

  It lowers plaque removal efficiency
• What is a potential effect of long-term medication use on caries risk?

  It can reduce oral hygiene effectiveness
• Why are fixed orthodontics a risk factor for caries?

  They require higher levels of oral hygiene
• What advice should be given to a parent of a 4-year-old with high caries risk?

  • Perform caries risk analysis
  • Gather medical, social, and family history
  • Identify dietary risk factors
  • Request sugar-free medication versions
  • Limit fruit juice and sugary drinks
  • Reduce snacking frequency
  • Ensure no eating before bed
  • Use fluoride toothpaste (1350-1500ppm)
  • Demonstrate modified bass technique
  • Spit, don’t rinse after brushing
  • Conduct a 24-hour diet recall
• How can parents encourage good oral hygiene in children?

  Use a sticker sheet for tooth brushing
• How often should fluoride varnish be applied to high-risk children?

  Four times per year
• How frequently should bitewing radiographs be taken for caries assessment?

  Every 6 months
• When should fissure sealants be applied to molars?

  When they erupt
• What is a recommended alternative to rewarding children with sweets?

  Use stickers or toys as rewards
• What can be done to prevent the progression of caries in children?

  Consider placing hall crowns on affected teeth
• How often should high-risk children be recalled for caries assessment?

  Every 3 months