Caries in dentin of the root is called?

Caries in dentin of the root is called?

• A. Root caries
• B. Cervical caries
• C. Cemental caries
• D. Proximal caries

Answer: (A)

Root caries is the term used for decay that affects the dentin of the tooth root. When the cementum is exposed due to gingival recession, caries can involve the root surface and penetrate the underlying dentin, which is why this label is used. The other terms describe different locations: cervical caries refers to decay near the crown at the cementoenamel junction, cemental caries is decay confined to cementum, and proximal caries occurs on interproximal surfaces between teeth. So, decay specifically in the root dentin is best described as root caries.

Root caries is the term used for decay that affects the dentin of the tooth root. When the cementum is exposed due to gingival recession, caries can involve the root surface and penetrate the underlying dentin, which is why this label is used. The other terms describe different locations: cervical caries refers to decay near the crown at the cementoenamel junction, cemental caries is decay confined to cementum, and proximal caries occurs on interproximal surfaces between teeth. So, decay specifically in the root dentin is best described as root caries.