An Update on Demineralization/Remineralization

This course was one of the first courses available on dentalcare.com. The course has been updated without changing the original content, which is still valid. The update includes information on new technologies emerging for caries detection and evaluation as well as information on the evidence-based approach for dentistry in the area of demineralization and remineralization. This primarily includes the use of fluorides with information and resources on how to approach evidence-based dentistry for clinical practice. This course begins with an historical perspective on caries as a concern in the 1940s as a major public health problem and moves to the clinical practice today...from cure to prevention. An up-to-date understanding of the caries process in both enamel and root caries are detailed through the discussion of demineralization/remineralization. This course has been widely used by clinical staff (dental assistants, hygienists, and dentists in clinical practice) as well as students from all over the world. This course is not meant to be a comprehensive cariology course but rather an introduction to the concepts of demineralization and remineralization and how they can and should be incorporated into clinical practice. Upon completion of this course, participants will understand the continued need for fluoride to help protect against the ongoing challenge to tooth structure, secondary lesions and root caries. Participants will also appreciate the need to examine the literature and evidence when applying clinical preventive techniques for caries prevention.