J Korean Acad Pediatr Dent.  2023 May;50(2):131-141. 10.5933/JKAPD.2023.50.2.131.

Strategies for the Prevention of Dental Caries as a Non-Communicable Disease

• Kim JG

• KMID: 2542668
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5933/JKAPD.2023.50.2.131

Abstract

Dental caries is a multifactorial disease influenced by interactions between teeth, biofilm, dietary factors, and various biological, behavioral, sociocultural, and genetic factors. Recent research has shown that dental caries results from dysbiosis, an imbalance in the oral microbial community, shifting the concept from an infectious disease to a non-communicable disease (NCD). Dental caries shares similarities with other chronic NCDs such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, as they all relate to dietary intake, lifestyle habits, and environmental factors. Considering the high prevalence of dental caries and its impact on people’s health and quality of life, it is important to understand dental caries as an NCD and develop effective oral health management strategies. Ecological prevention methods and efficient public health policies should be provided to reduce risk factors associated with dental caries.

Keyword

Dental caries; Non-communicable diseases; Dental biofilm; Dysbiosis; Ecological approach