Dentine lesions under non-cavitated enamel: a prevalence study

Purpose: This study aimed to record the prevalence of dentine lesions under non-cavitated or minimally demineralized enamel in molar teeth of adolescents from the Recife metropolitan area, PE, Brazil. Methods: Sample was composed of 215 first and second permanent molars selected according the inclusion criteria: non-cavitated enamel, and absence of cracks, enamel defects, or stains. The teeth were collected from recently deceased adolescents, between 12 and 18 years-old, from the Recife metropolitan area, PE, whose legal representatives signed a donation term and an informed consent form. The World Health Organization criteria were used to classify molar teeth as having sound enamel. In bitewing radiographs, dentine lesion under non-cavitated enamel (hidden caries) was diagnosed as a translucent radiographic image visible in dentine under sound occlusal enamel, without any restoration or sealant. Results: The prevalence of dentin lesions under non-cavitated enamel molars was 13%. Most cases comprised lower first permanent molars (58%). Conclusions: These results suggest that the prevalence of dentine lesions in molars was high in this sample. It is important to associate radiographic exams with clinical exam to identify and follow-up this type of lesion in early stages. Key word: Dental caries; dentine; hidden caries; diagnosis; epidemiology; bitewing radiography