DENTAL CARIES RISK ASSESSMENT TABLE

RISK FACTORS	PROTECTIVE FACTORS
Physical: Examples
*Previous dental caries experience	Increased frequency of oral health supervision
High Streptococcus mutans* count	Reduction of Streptococcus mutans count
History of tooth decay	Increased frequency of oral health supervision
Variations in tooth enamel; deep pits and fissures; anatomically susceptible areas	Dental sealants (if possible) or observation
Special health care needs	Preventive intervention to minimize effects
Gastric reflux	Management of condition
Behavioral: Examples
*Frequent snacking	Reduction in snacking frequency
*Inadequate oral hygiene	Good oral hygiene
Frequent or prolonged bottle feedings during the day or night	Less-frequent and less-prolonged bottle feedings, and weaning from bottle by age 12 to 14 months
Eating disorders (bulimia nervosa) including self-induced vomiting	Referral for counseling
Socioenvironmental: Examples
*Inadequate fluoride	Optimal systemic and/or topical fluoride
*Poverty	Access to care
Poor family oral health	Access to care and good oral hygiene
High parental levels of bacteria (Streptococcus mutans)	Good parental oral health and hygiene
Disease or Treatment Related: Examples
*Special carbohydrate diet	Preventive intervention to minimize effects
*Frequent intake of sugared medications	Alternate medications or preventive intervention to minimize effects
Orthodontic appliances	Good oral hygiene for appliances
Reduced saliva flow from medication or irradiation	Saliva substitute