Bridging the Gap: Analyzing the Discrepancy Between Theoretical Knowledge and Clinical Implementation in Modern Caries Management in Existing Dental Education

Abstract

Traditionally, caries has been addressed through surgical means, where the dentist utilizes rotary and hand instruments to eliminate the affected tooth tissue, creating a cavity that is subsequently filled with biomaterials for restoration purposes. This approach stems from the understanding of caries as an irreversible condition involving the destruction of hard tissues. However, recent evidence reveals caries to be a dynamic ailment characterized by alternating phases of demineralization and remineralization of hard tooth tissues. Contrary to the earlier perception, caries is now recognized as a dynamic disease with a fluctuating balance between factors that protect and promote tooth remineralization, as well as factors that contribute to tooth demineralization. Identified as caries risk factors and indicators, these pathological elements prompt a shift in perspective among cariologists towards managing caries through a medical model. In this medical model, caries is viewed as a multifactorial infectious disease caused by acidogenic bacteria present in the oral cavity. The recommended approach involves preventive strategies such as evaluating patients’ caries risk, regulating bacterial levels in saliva, employing various therapeutic agents, remineralizing incipient carious lesions and ultimately restoring cavitated lesions. These strategies not only emphasize prevention but also align with the principles of Minimal Intervention Dentistry (MID). Dental students studying in various dental institutions receive theoretical education on existing preventive caries management; however, the practical application of this knowledge is insufficient and requires emphasis through integration into the curriculum.