CAMBRA

CAMBRA (Cavity Management By Risk Assessment) is a dental approach designed to prevent cavities by identifying individuals at higher risk for dental caries and implementing targeted preventive measures. Developed in the early 2000s by Dr. John Feigal and others, CAMBRA focuses on a patient-centered, risk-based strategy rather than relying solely on traditional cavity detection methods like radiographs or visual inspection.

The core principle of CAMBRA is to assess an individual’s risk factors for caries, such as saliva composition, dietary habits, oral hygiene practices, and underlying medical conditions. By identifying these risks, dentists can tailor interventions like fluoride treatments, sealants, dietary counseling, and oral hygiene modifications to reduce the likelihood of cavities. Unlike conventional dentistry, which often treats cavities after they form, CAMBRA emphasizes prevention through early intervention.

Key components of CAMBRA include saliva testing to evaluate buffering capacity and bacterial presence, regular risk assessments, and collaboration with patients to address modifiable risk factors. This approach aims to minimize unnecessary dental procedures by focusing on long-term prevention, thereby improving oral health outcomes and reducing costs associated with extensive dental work.

While CAMBRA is widely adopted in private practices, its integration into public health systems remains variable. Some studies suggest it may be particularly effective for high-risk populations, including children, elderly individuals, and those with systemic conditions like diabetes or osteoporosis. However, its long-term efficacy and cost-effectiveness continue to be areas of ongoing research. Overall, CAMBRA represents a shift toward a more proactive and personalized approach to dental care.