Caries in children: what every dentist should do

For years, pediatric and preventive dentistry was considered a static discipline—but today, it is once again
central to oral health care. Childhood habits—diet, hygiene, and behavior—shape the foundation for
lifelong well-being. While fluoride use has significantly reduced caries prevalence, many children, especially
those from disadvantaged backgrounds, continue to suffer from untreated decay. These two consecutive
lectures approach the topic of childhood caries from two complementary angles.
“What Every Dentist Should Do,” focuses on clinical treatment: specifically, the management of
advanced carious lesions in vital posterior primary teeth. It explores current criteria for intervention,
minimally invasive approaches, material selection, and practical tips for managing pediatric patients in daily
practice.