Dental Caries: A Simplified Treatment Model

Presented by: V. Kim Kutsch, DMD

Original Publication Date: June 20, 2018

Course Description:

Dental caries is a complex biofilm-mediated disease, significantly influenced by pH, and results in net mineral loss from the teeth. Current research indicates there are multiple known risk factors for the disease, including genetic factors. Dental caries also plays a role in systemic disease. Caries management by risk assessment is considered the best practice in preventing and treating dental caries disease and represents a medical model approach. Unfortunately, early attempts at caries management were complicated, confusing, and not easily implemented in daily practice. This program will review the most current scientific literature on caries management and present a simplified, efficient, and effective approach in clinical practice. In summary, the program will help the participant answer the questions: How can I successfully implement caries management into my daily practice? How can we effectively help our patients manage this disease?

Learning Objectives:

• Discuss the current dental caries biofilm disease model and identify the main risk factors.
• Describe how dental caries influences systemic disease.
• Implement a simple caries management system.

Speaker Bio:

Dr. V. Kim Kutsch completed his DMD at the University of Oregon School of Dentistry in 1979. With expertise in dental caries, he teaches dental teams how to manage the disease successfully. Dr. Kutsch maintains a private practice in Albany, Oregon, and serves as Dental Alliance Holdings's CEO.