Prevalence of hidden caries.

Clinical evaluations of the first and second permanent molars were compared with radiographic evaluations of the same teeth, for 359 patients (between six and eighteen years old) of the pediatric department of the Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA). The teeth were professionally cleaned and dried before the clinical evaluation. Despite the thorough examination, taking into account the fact that all discolorations and/or decalcifications were noted, 15 percent of the teeth that did not show signs of enamel caries clinically, showed a dentine lesion on the bitewing radiograph. These 15 percent of teeth with hidden caries were found in 7.5 percent of the population studied. The absence of clinical signs of occlusal enamel caries or dentine caries does not guarantee a sound dentition. Sealant treatment of teeth that are sound (both clinically and radiographically) is justified, therefore, soon after tooth eruption.