Caries Risk Assessment

Caries risk assessment determines the likelihood of developing carious lesions, or the likelihood that there will be a change in current carious lesions (size or activity).³ If risk factors are eliminated before the diseases occur, the disease process can be prevented.

Risk factors that can be evaluated include:

• Presence of caries

• Presence of plaque

• Gingival condition

• Caries history

• Fluoride exposure

• Carbohydrate exposure – frequency, amount

• Socioeconomic status

• Dental care exposure

• Caregiver dental literacy

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) developed a caries risk assessment form for children age 0-5 years that evaluates three areas and includes.⁴

1. Contributing Conditions

2. General Health Conditions

3. Clinical Conditions

These subjects are further categorized as High, Moderate or Low Risk.

Figure 1. Caries Risk Assessment Form (Ages 0-5 years and ≥6 years).

Figure 1. Caries Risk Assessment Form (Ages 0-5 years and ≥6 years).