Kariesskador

Kariesskador is a term used in some Scandinavian dental literature to describe the damage to tooth structure caused by dental caries. Caries is an infectious, multifactorial disease in which acids produced by bacteria in dental plaque demineralize enamel and dentin, leading to tissue loss if not halted.

The process begins with demineralization at the tooth surface, often visible as white spot lesions. With progression, cavities (cavitations) form, allowing bacteria to invade dentin and, in advanced cases, reach the pulp. Contributing factors include frequent consumption of fermentable carbohydrates, insufficient fluoride exposure, inadequate oral hygiene, and reduced saliva production. Cariogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans and lactobacilli metabolize sugars to acids, driving the damage.

Clinically, kariesskador may be detected during routine examination or after symptoms such as tooth sensitivity or pain. Early lesions are often asymptomatic; cavitated lesions can produce sensitivity to sweet, hot, or cold stimuli and may lead to more serious complications if untreated, including pulpitis, abscesses, or tooth loss.

Diagnosis relies on visual inspection and tactile probing, often complemented by radiographs to assess proximal lesions. Systems like the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) categorize lesions by severity, aiding treatment planning.

Prevention emphasizes fluoride exposure, dental sealants for at-risk areas, good oral hygiene, and dietary modification to reduce carbohydrate intake. Treatment depends on lesion severity: remineralization strategies for early, non-cavitated lesions; restorative procedures (fillings) for cavitated lesions; and, in severe cases, endodontic therapy or extraction. Public health approaches focus on population-level prevention, risk assessment, and early detection to limit progression of kariesskador.