Caries control from cradle to grave.

UNLABELLED

Caries is a ubiquitous, natural process occurring in the biofilm. The interaction of the biofilm with the dental tissues may result in a caries lesion, the reflection of the process being the consequence that can be seen. However, lesion formation and progression are not inevitable because the process in the biofilm can be controlled by plaque control, fluoride and a sensible diet. This paper summarizes caries control in note form and it questions how these measures are to be carried out under the current Unit of Dental Activity payment system used within the NHS Dental Services in England and Wales.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Caries control is the non-operative management of the ubiquitous, natural process in the biofilm so that lesions do not form, or established lesions are arrested. This paper seeks to present these caries control measures in note form as checklists to aid the dental team.