Policy on Use of a Caries-risk Assessment Tool (CAT) for Infants, Children, and Adolescents

Department of Pediatric Dentistry

Resident's Name: Jessica Wilson Lutheran Medical Center - Providence

Article title: Policy on Use of a Caries-risk Assessment Tool (CAT) for Infants, Children, and Adolescents

Author(s): AAPD

Journal: Reference Manual

Year. Volume (number). Page #’s: 2007-2008. 29(7). 29-33.

Major topic: Caries-risk Assessment

Overview of method of research: A systematic literature review as well as expert opinions and best current practices were used to establish this policy.

Findings: Through interview with parent/caregiver and clinical examination the CAT helps healthcare providers determine the likelihood of the incidence of caries in a child as well as the likelihood of an increase in size or activity of existing carious lesions (see TABLE on pg 30).

Key points/Summary: A child’s risk classification is determined by the highest risk category present.
While previous caries experience may be the best indicator for caries susceptibility, it does not allow for prevention of caries.
The CAT is an adjunctive tool assessing risk at a single point in time and needs to be updated periodically.
The CAT does not deliver a diagnosis and can be used by non-dental personnel.
Although not included in the CAT, radiographic assessment and microbial testing are encouraged.

Assessment of Article: This article encourages practitioners to become more involved in the recognition of children at risk and the delivery of preventative treatment, especially in those categorized as “high-risk”. In corollary, this study guides the dentist in identifying exactly which risk factors are important in determining the proper treatment for a child or whether caries control measures are needed and if they are working properly.