Dental caries: a new concept

José Eduardo de Oliveira LIMA

Introduction: The concept of dental caries and its etiologic factors have been raising disagreement in the establishment of preventive strategies among epidemiologists and health professionals. Considerations and knowledge on the formation, progression and definition of carious lesions should be enhanced for establishment of criteria to favor the diagnosis, prevention and treatment, maintaining the life quality of patients. The concept of dental caries as an infectious, transmissible and diet-dependent disease should be revised; the etiologic factors should be better interpreted and understood to avoid mistaken approaches for prevention and treatment. A more conclusive positioning of scientific institutions and universities is required for definitive establishment of these concepts and achievement of practical outcomes. Aim: This study aimed to provide a contribution based on 35 years of professional exercise and academic experience in teaching and research, as well as to conduct a literature review on cariology for interpretation of scientific findings to allow logical conclusions on the concept of dental caries and its etiologic factors, to reach the truth as much as possible. Results and Conclusions: The information currently available by means of scientific investigation and also the conclusions of this study allow the formulation of more effective preventive strategies throughout the world allows; in the short term, dental caries will be a minor problem to mankind. Based on the present study, it is concluded that dental caries should not be considered a disease, but rather an enamel lesion due to local causes, without determinant etiologic factors, yet caused by imbalance between physiological factors pertinent to the biodiversity of mankind and specifically to the oral cavity. An objective preventive strategy should aim to achieve biological balance, taking into account the mankind quality of life.

Keywords: Caries. Caries concept. Caries etiology.

Friday, May 03, 2024 16:10