Medigy: Dental Caries Activity Tests

Dental caries, also known as cavities, are a common oral health problem caused by the bacterial fermentation of sugars in the mouth. Dental caries activity tests are used to assess the level of bacterial activity in the mouth that is associated with the development of cavities. These tests can help dentists to identify individuals who are at a higher risk for developing cavities and to develop more effective treatment and prevention plans.

There are several different types of dental caries activity tests, including:

Caries detection dyes: These are topical dyes that are applied to the teeth and can help to identify areas of the tooth that have been demineralized by acid-producing bacteria.

Salivary tests: These tests measure the levels of bacteria or enzymes in the saliva that are associated with the development of cavities.

pH tests: These tests measure the acidity of the mouth, which can indicate the level of bacterial activity.

Laser fluorescence: This test uses a laser to measure the amount of fluorescence emitted from tooth surfaces, which can indicate the presence and activity of caries.

It’s worth noting that most of these tests are used as a diagnostic aid and are not conclusive on their own, dental professionals need to perform additional exams and assessments to make a final diagnosis.