Root caries is typically preceded by what periodontal change?

Root caries is typically preceded by what periodontal change?

• A. Bone loss
• B. Bone gain
• C. Cementum thickening
• D. No bone change

Answer: (A)

Bone loss is the typical periodontal change that precedes root caries. When the supporting bone and the gingival tissues recede due to periodontal disease, the root surface becomes exposed. Exposed root surfaces, composed of cementum and dentin, are more vulnerable to caries because enamel protection is absent and the tubule-rich dentin is more easily demineralized by cariogenic acids. Plaque also adheres more readily to rough exposed root surfaces, increasing cariogenic challenge. In short, loss of bone leading to gingival recession creates the exposed root surface that enables root caries to develop. The alternative options don’t fit because they don’t create the necessary exposure of the root surface: bone gain or no bone change wouldn’t expose the root, and cementum thickening isn’t a typical driver of root caries.

Bone loss is the typical periodontal change that precedes root caries. When the supporting bone and the gingival tissues recede due to periodontal disease, the root surface becomes exposed. Exposed root surfaces, composed of cementum and dentin, are more vulnerable to caries because enamel protection is absent and the tubule-rich dentin is more easily demineralized by cariogenic acids. Plaque also adheres more readily to rough exposed root surfaces, increasing cariogenic challenge. In short, loss of bone leading to gingival recession creates the exposed root surface that enables root caries to develop. The alternative options don’t fit because they don’t create the necessary exposure of the root surface: bone gain or no bone change wouldn’t expose the root, and cementum thickening isn’t a typical driver of root caries.