Caries Classification and Associated Follow-ups

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and definitions related to caries classification, diagnosis, and treatment.

Caries Staging

The process of classifying caries based on severity and extent.

Infected Dentin

Dentin that has been impacted by caries and is subject to decay.

ICDAS

International Caries Detection and Assessment System, used for caries classification.

Cervical Burnout

An artifact seen in radiographs, characterized by diffuse radiolucency between the cementoenamel junction and alveolar crest.

Mach Band Effect

A visual illusion caused by contrast enhancement that makes edges appear darker, commonly seen near enamel/dentin interfaces.

Initial Caries

The earliest clinically detectable lesion compatible with mild demineralization, typically limited to enamel.

Moderate Caries

Visible signs of enamel breakdown or moderate demineralization of dentin.

Advanced Caries

Fully cavitated enamel with exposed dentin; dentinal lesions are deeply demineralized.

Severe Caries

Extends through enamel, dentin, and more than half the distance toward the pulp.

Radiopaque Materials

Materials that appear white or light gray on dental X-rays due to high density, like amalgam and metal crowns.

Radiolucent Materials

Materials that appear darker on X-rays because they allow more X-rays to pass through, such as some resins.

Caries Risk Factors

Factors that increase the likelihood of developing dental caries.

Post and Core

Dental restoration where a post replaces missing tooth structure in the canal, and a crown is placed on top.

Gutta Percha

A rubber-like material used to fill root canals after endodontic therapy.

Caries Management System (ICCMS)

A risk-based caries management system used to classify and manage caries effectively.

H1

A notation likely used to classify specific findings in dental imaging.

E1

outer half of enamel

E2

inner half of enamel with or without dentin involvement

D1

outer 1/3 of dentin

D2

reaches middle 1/3 of dentin

D3

reaches inner 1/3 of dentin

excessive gross decay 

reaches pulp

images are…

an underestimation of the real decay

cervical burnout is mistaken for decay why?

in radiographs due to the loss of tooth structure at the cervical area, creating a shadow effect that resembles caries.

Mach band effect is confused with caries why?

It occurs in radiographs where adjacent areas of differing densities create an optical illusion, leading to misinterpretation of the boundaries of carious lesions.

get rid of mach band effect

adjust viewing conditions

compare with other angles

analyze lesion borders

use clinical examination

cross check with risk factors

13

ceramic restoration most likely milled in office 

14

PFM and gutta percha

15, 18 ,19

gold crowns with smooth contours and level of radiopacity

material density 

highest to lowest 

Zirconia

gold

PFM

Stainless Steel 

Emax/porcelain  

occlusal class ! amalgam

stays between marginal ridges NO interproximal

Class II Amalgam fillings

are cavity restorations that involve the proximal surfaces of posterior teeth, requiring precision to maintain contact with adjacent teeth.

Think II surfaces mostly occlusal and interproximal

gutta percha and sealer

gutta percha is the rubber like filler material in the roots canal and the sealer is part of the little puffs 

Mineral Trioxide Aggregate

biocompatible material used for dental pulp capping and root-end fillings, known for its sealing properties and ability to promote tissue regeneration.

filling material

used in restorative dentistry to repair cavities and restore tooth function. ranges in viscosity that affects radiopacity, high viscosity=radiolucency low viscosity=radiopaque

layering technique 

using multiple steps and layers of different materials in a restoration 

post and core

used when not enough crown in retained and a retention point needs to be made

dental implants

screwed in permanent restoration. can hold one crown or assist a bridge.

zygomatic implants 

made when not enough bone is retained for a traditional implant and are anchored in the zygomatic bone to provide stability and support for prosthetic teeth.

surgical plates, screws and vascular clips