Effectiveness of a preventive program based on caries risk assessment and recall intervals on the incidence and regression of initial caries lesions in children.

Abstract

Evidence on caries risk assessment (CRA) and recall intervals are limited in terms of caries prevention. To assess the effectiveness of a program on the incidence and regression of initial caries lesions. A total of 296 children aged 1-12 years old were assessed by calibrated examiners for Gingival Bleeding Index, Dental Plaque Index, dmf-t/DMF-T Index, initial caries lesions, and caries lesion activity. Children were classified as low, moderate, and high caries risk with different recall interval visits. Statistical analysis included Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier curves. The mean (SD) time of total follow-up for the sample was 11.5(5.5). Higher dmft index at baseline showed a higher risk of new initial lesions (HR = 1.93; P < 0.0001). Higher number of active initial lesions, at baseline and during follow-up visits, is a higher risk predictor for new initial lesions (HR = 9.49; P < 0.0001), as well as for no arrestment of active lesions during follow-up (HR = 1.32; P < 0.0001). Each follow-up visit attended presented a 77% lower risk of initial lesions. The majority (94.8%) of patients did not show new initial lesions. The Program is effective on reducing the incidence and promoting regression of initial caries lesions in children.