Dentine lesions under non-cavitated enamel: a prevalence study

Authors

  • Valdeci Elias dos Santos Junior Universidade de Pernambuco
  • Andreza Cristina de Lima Targino Massoni Universidade de Pernambuco
  • Aronita Rosenblatt Universidade de Pernambuco

Keywords:

Dental caries, dentine, hidden caries, diagnosis, bitewing radiography

Abstract

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

Author Biographies

Valdeci Elias dos Santos Junior, Universidade de Pernambuco

Estudante de Graduação da Faculdade de Odontologia de Pernambuco, Universidade de Pernambuco, Camaragibe, Pernambuco, Brasil. Pesquisador PIBIC/CNpQ

Andreza Cristina de Lima Targino Massoni, Universidade de Pernambuco

Aluna de Doutorado em Odontopediatria, Faculdade de Odontologia de Pernambuco, Universidade de Pernambuco, Camaragibe, Pernambuco, Brasil.

Aronita Rosenblatt, Universidade de Pernambuco

Professora Doutora, Disciplina de Odontopediatria, Faculdade de Odontologia de Pernambuco, Universidade de Pernambuco, Camaragibe, Pernambuco, Brasil.

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Published

2008-06-22

Issue

Vol. 23 No. 3 (2008)

Section

Original Article

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