Long-term follow-up of inactive occlusal caries lesions: 4-5-year results
Abstract
Objective
To
assess the clinical behavior of inactive caries lesion on the occlusal
sites of permanent molars over 4–5 years and to estimate the risk for
progression of caries-inactive sites compared with sound ones.
Methods
Clinical examinations were conducted at baseline (n = 258)
and after 4–5 years and included the recording of dental plaque and
dental caries at the occlusal surfaces and the eruption stage of each
permanent molar.
Results
One hundred ninety-three schoolchildren were followed (response rate of 74.8%), totalizing 1152 teeth. Of the children, 30.6% (n = 59)
presented at least one molar containing an active lesion, filling, or
that had been extracted; according to the activity criterion, inactive
lesions presented around a twofold increased risk for caries progression
than sound surfaces (OR = 2.34 95%CI = 1.51–3.62). Thirteen percent (n = 25)
of the children presented at least one molar progressing to dentine
cavity, filling, or extraction; according to the severity criterion,
inactive caries lesions presented a significantly higher risk for
progression when compared with sound surfaces (OR = 2.69, 95%
CI = 1.50–4.83).
Conclusion
The
vast majority of lesions (85–90%) identified as inactive enamel caries
at baseline did not progress over 4–5 years. Despite this fact, it was
possible to detect an increased risk for caries progression in
caries-inactive occlusal sites compared with the sound ones.
Clinical relevance
Considering
the low progression rates, inactive caries lesions do not need a
specific caries-controlling treatment and should be monitored
longitudinally in the same manner as sound surfaces.
Comments