Practical Suggestions for Implementing Caries Control and Recall Protocols for Children and Young Adults

Caries is a ubiquitous, natural process occurring in the biofilm. Lesion formation can be controlled by plaque control, fluoride and a sensible diet. Diagnosis is a mental resting place for a treatment decision. Active lesions require active management, including non-operative measures to arrest the lesion, supplemented with operative dentistry to facilitate cleaning of cavities. The diagnosis of active lesions is the best measure of caries risk and should determine recall intervals. The paper describes a clinical sequence of oral hygiene instruction, followed by a clinical examination of clean, dry teeth and then fluoride varnish application.