Kariesrisk

Kariesrisk, also known as caries risk, is the estimated likelihood that a person will develop new dental caries within a defined time frame. It results from an interaction of factors related to the host (teeth, enamel quality, saliva), the microbiological environment (presence of cariogenic bacteria), dietary habits (exposure to fermentable carbohydrates), and protective factors such as fluoride exposure and good oral hygiene. Kariesrisk is dynamic and modifiable; changes in behavior, medical conditions, or fluoride use can reduce risk, while aging, dry mouth, or poor diet can increase it.

Assessment uses patient history, clinical examination, radiographs, and sometimes laboratory tests to evaluate known risk factors. Several formal tools exist, including CAMBRA (Caries Management By Risk Assessment) and the Cariogram model, which help clinicians estimate overall risk and prioritize interventions. Risk is commonly categorized as low, moderate, high, or extreme, though exact thresholds vary by tool.

Implications for prevention and management: low risk individuals may require routine care and reinforcement of good hygiene; higher risk individuals benefit from intensified measures such as topical fluoride applications, sealants on susceptible surfaces, dietary counseling to reduce fermentable carbohydrate intake, improved oral hygiene, saliva management in xerostomia, and regular maintenance visits to monitor progression. In children, preventive strategies focus on early interception, including parental education and fluoride varnish programs. Kariesrisk assessment guides personalized prevention plans and resource allocation in both clinical and public health settings.