Caries prevention--a continuing need.
The frequently iterated, optimistic view of the demise of caries is not supported by the epidemiologic data. What is in evidence is a changing pattern of caries in developed countries. Among the young there is a polarisation in prevalence with 20 per cent of the children experiencing 70 per cent of the decay. The ageing population is at increasing risk because of longer tooth retention and exposure of root surfaces. A realistic view would envision control rather than extinction of caries with enhancement of current methods of combating tooth decay and more effective employment of multiple anticaries strategies.
Mandel
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ID
Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery, New York, New York 10032.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001428:Bacterial Vaccines; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000382:microbiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005459:Fluorides / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged
D001428:Bacterial Vaccines; D005459:Fluorides