Key Points
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Discusses the methods recommended for clinical diagnosis of initial carious lesions.
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Stresses the importance of a systematic approach to caries diagnosis and treatment.
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Presents a clinical case to consolidate diagnostic methods.
Abstract
The detection of carious lesions is focused on the identification of early mineral changes to allow the demineralisation process to be managed by non-invasive interventions. The methods recommended for clinical diagnosis of initial carious lesions are discussed and illustrated. These include the early detection of lesions, evaluation of the extent of the lesion and its state of activity and the establishment of appropriate monitoring. The place of modern tools, including those based on fluorescence, is discussed. These can help inform patients. They are also potentially useful in regular control visits to monitor the progression or regression of early lesions. A rigorous and systematic approach to caries diagnosis is essential to establish a care plan for the disease and to identify preventive measures based on more precise diagnosis and to reduce reliance on restorative measures.
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Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank Claudie Damour — Terrasson, President and publishing director of the Groupe ID Espace — L'Information Dentaire, Paris France, for the authorisation of translation and publication of the series in the BDJ.
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Guerrieri, A., Gaucher, C., Bonte, E. et al. Minimal intervention dentistry: part 4. Detection and diagnosis of initial caries lesions. Br Dent J 213, 551–557 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2012.1087
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2012.1087
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