Hygiene Atlas

Atlas · Plate XV · Caries and Preventive Agents · 02

Caries risk assessment

Caries risk assessment, using CAMBRA or the ADA forms for ages 0-6 and over 6, weighs disease indicators and risk factors against protective factors to rate a patient low, moderate, high or extreme risk. Extreme risk means high risk plus severe dry mouth. High-risk patients usually return every 3-4 months for fluoride varnish.

High-yield facts · 7

  1. CAMBRA balances disease indicators and risk factors against protective factors to assign low, moderate, high or extreme risk.S31
  2. Extreme risk = high risk plus severe hyposalivation (e.g., radiation, Sjögren, many medications).S31
  3. ADA caries risk forms are separate for ages 0-6 and over 6.S31
  4. Disease indicators include visible cavities or radiographic dentin lesions, new white spots, and restorations placed in the past 3 years.S31
  5. Risk factors include frequent snacking (more than 3 times a day between meals), deep pits and fissures, low saliva, exposed roots, and appliances.S31
  6. Protective factors include fluoridated water, fluoride toothpaste twice daily, adequate saliva, and xylitol.S31
  7. High-risk patients typically get recall every 3-4 months with fluoride varnish and bitewings every 6-18 months.S31S19

Facts are written in our own words; each tag links to its source. Values marked "sources vary" differ between references, so check the one your program uses.