Prevenzione della carie: strategie basate sull'evidenza = Caries prevention: evidence-based strategies

Objectives. To review the main procedures currently considered to be effective for preventing caries or inhibiting their early phases of development. Materials and methods. We conducted a review of the literature indexed in the PubMed/MedLine databases and in the Cochrane Library. Results. The main strategies used to prevent caries today are based on dietary control, application of dental sealants to the sulci of the permanent molars, and prophylactic fluoride therapy. Conclusions. Modern strategies to prevent tooth decay imply collaboration between patient and dentist. The former is required to make life-style modifications and adopt good habits regarding nutrition and hygiene; the latter implements preventive evidence-based strategies tailored to the caries risk status of each patient.