Dental Caries

Dental Caries Overview

• Dental caries typically begins in the enamel, which is the outermost layer of the tooth.
• The process of demineralization and remineralization in enamel is crucial; disruption of this balance increases the risk of caries formation.

Progression of Dental Caries

• In late-stage development, decay can advance into deeper layers of the tooth, potentially reaching the dentin and pulp.
• When a favorable oral environment is established, caries lesions can undergo remineralization and may even arrest, halting further progression.

Characteristics of Arrested Lesions

• Arrested lesions appear dark due to mineral changes but are stable and non-progressive.
• Characteristics include reduced size, lack of symptoms, and a tough surface that protects against further decay.

Factors Influencing Caries Lesions

• The caries process can be halted through good oral hygiene, fluoride use, dietary modifications, and proper saliva flow, leading to the arrest of lesions.
• If an unfavorable oral environment persists—characterized by poor hygiene or high sugar diets—caries lesions will further progress, potentially resulting in tooth extraction or advanced decay.

Implications of Pulp Involvement

• If dental caries involve the pulp, it can lead to pulpitis, inflammation of the pulp tissue, requiring more extensive treatment like root canal therapy or extraction.