Dental caries from the past to the future: is it possible to reduce caries prevalence?

Year 2024, , 240 - 247, 28.05.2024

Enes Kara , Buse İpek

https://doi.org/10.38053/acmj.1472247

Cited By: 1

Abstract

Dental caries is a significant oral health issue encountered globally. Unlike bone tissue, dental tissue lacks the capacity for self-renewal, leading to the permanence of pathological changes in teeth. Dental caries is primarily the result of acid production by microorganisms that metabolise sugary foods, which demineralises tooth enamel. If left untreated, caries can progress beyond the enamel and damage the dentin and pulp tissue. The development and spread of dental caries is influenced by an individual’s dietary habits, oral hygiene practices and various socio-economic factors. Throughout history, dental decay has consistently posed a major health issue across both ancient and contemporary communities. The incidence of dental caries has been influenced by factors such as dietary preferences, oral hygiene routines, and shifts in societal lifestyles. In particular, increased consumption of fermentable carbohydrates significantly increases the risk of caries formation. Conversely, preventive measures such as fluoride applications and a balanced diet can substantially reduce the incidence of caries. Other factors impacting the risk of caries include the chemical composition of saliva, the individual’s general health and various medical conditions. Fluoride applications, healthy eating habits and regular dental visits stand out as effective methods for preventing dental caries. Therefore, the success of dental caries prevention strategies depends on raising health awareness at the individual level and strengthening public health policies. This multifaceted approach will help to create healthier oral conditions for future generations.

Keywords

dental caries, dental anthropology, diet, dental anatomy, caries prevalence

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