Abstract Accurate determination of the prevalence of erosive tooth wear (ETW) and associated risk factors in adolescents can inform clinical management guidelines. The aim of this analytical cross-sectional study was to estimate the prevalence, severity, and risk factors of ETW in adolescents aged 12–15 years in the municipality of Usaquén in Bogotá, Colombia. Two calibrated examiners clinically assessed ETW using Basic Erosive Wear Examination (BEWE) Index (range: 0–3). All tooth surfaces (excluding proximal) were scored to allow estimation of the Highest (0–3) and Total BEWE (sum of Highest BEWE score per sextant: 0–18) scores per patient. Sociodemographic characteristics, ETW risk factors, and caries severity (ICDAS-epi-merged) were evaluated, and their association with the presence of ETW (indicated by a Highest BEWE score of 2–3) was examined using preliminary analyses and logistic regression models. The study sample included 454 adolescents (mean age: 13.5±1.1 years; female: 61.7%), and the prevalence of ETW was 71.6%. The majority of participants exhibited a Highest BEWE score of 3 (58.0%) and a Total BEWE score ≤8 (84.3%). The preliminary analysis showed an association between the presence of ETW and age, caries, and brushing teeth before eating (p-value < 0.05). Risk factors for ETW included always brushing teeth before eating [adjusted Prevalence Ratio (PRa) 1.31, p-value=0.014], presence of extensive carious lesions (PRa 1.23, p-value = 0.024), male gender (PRa 1.14, p-value = 0.028), and age > 14 years (PRa 1.17, p-value = 0.009). Although ETW was highly prevalent, most Colombian adolescents exhibited low Total BEWE scores. ETW was associated with frequent fruit intake, age, toothbrushing habits, caries lesions, and sex. (ETW guidelines crosssectional cross sectional 1215 12 15 12–1 Bogotá Colombia (BEWE range (range 0–3. 03 0–3 . 0 0–3) excluding proximal (0–3 sum sextant 0–18 018 18 patient characteristics ICDASepimerged ICDAS epi merged (ICDAS-epi-merged evaluated indicated 2–3 23 2 models 45 mean 13511 13 5 1 13.5±1. female 61.7%, 617 61.7% , 61 7 61.7%) 716 71 6 71.6% 58.0% 580 58 (58.0% 8 ≤ 84.3%. 843 84.3% 84 (84.3%) pvalue p value 0.05. 005 0.05 05 0.05) adjusted PRa 131 31 1.31 pvalue=0.014, pvalue0014 value=0.014 014 p-value=0.014] 123 1.23 0.024, 0024 0.024 024 0.024) 114 1.14 0.028, 0028 0.028 028 0.028) 117 17 1.17 0.009. 0009 0.009 009 0.009) prevalent intake habits sex 121 12– 0– (0– 0–1 01 2– 4 1351 13.5±1 61.7 71.6 58.0 (58.0 84.3 (84.3% 00 0.0 1.3 pvalue=0.014 pvalue001 value0014 value=0.01 p-value=0.014 1.2 002 0.02 02 11 1.1 000 0.00 (0 135 13.5± 61. 71. 58. (58. 84. (84.3 0. 1. pvalue=0.01 pvalue00 value001 value=0.0 p-value=0.01 ( 13.5 (58 (84. pvalue=0.0 pvalue0 value00 value=0. p-value=0.0 13. (5 (84 pvalue=0. value0 value=0 p-value=0. (8 pvalue=0 value= p-value=0 pvalue= p-value=

Abstract The Colombian Chapter of the Alliance-for-a-Cavity-Free-Future (Col-ACFF) has been conducting a health promotion and caries prevention program among young children in four vulnerable Colombian municipalities (baseline data from 2012–2014). This study aimed to quantify socioeconomic inequalities in early childhood caries (ECC) and examine the potential role of daily fluoride-toothpaste use, previous-year dental-care visit, and nutrition/diet-related aspects. The study sample included 1344 children aged 1–5 years. Inequalities in the age-standardized prevalence rates of and mean number of tooth surfaces affected by moderate/extensive (dME) and initial (dIME) caries (defined using the ICDAS-merged-epi criteria) by household income and level of education were examined using the relative index of inequality (RII) and the slope index of inequality (SII). Approximately one-third of the children included in this study exhibited dME, while 84% exhibited dIME. The majority of outcomes exhibited social gradients, and significant relative (RII) and absolute (SII) inequalities in ECC were observed. The SII estimate indicated an absolute difference of 12.4% in the prevalence of moderate/extensive carious lesions among children living in households with the lowest compared to the highest education levels [SII: 12.4; 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.7–22.1]. These children were also 6.7 times more likely to exhibit dIME compared to those living in households with higher levels of education (SII:6.73 95% CI: 4.18–9.29). Daily use of fluoride toothpastes, dental care visits in the previous year, and nutrition/diet-related factors played a limited role in ECC inequalities. In conclusion, significant ECC inequalities were observed in these vulnerable populations, highlighting the importance of upstream and downstream interventions that raise awareness among stakeholders and improve community- and individual-based practices to address this. AllianceforaCavityFreeFuture Alliance for Cavity Free Future ColACFF Col ACFF (Col-ACFF baseline 2012–2014. 20122014 2012–2014 . 2012 2014 2012–2014) (ECC fluoridetoothpaste toothpaste previousyear year dentalcare visit nutrition/dietrelated nutritiondietrelated nutrition/diet related nutrition diet aspects 134 15 1 5 1– years agestandardized age standardized moderateextensive moderate extensive dME (dME (dIME defined ICDASmergedepi ICDAS merged epi criteria RII (RII SII. onethird one third 84 gradients (SII 124 12 4 12.4 [SII 95 CI (CI) 2.7–22.1. 27221 2.7–22.1 2 7 22 2.7–22.1] 67 6 6. SII6.73 SII673 6.73 73 (SII:6.7 4.18–9.29. 418929 4.18–9.29 18 9 29 4.18–9.29) toothpastes conclusion populations community individualbased individual based 2012201 2012–201 201 dietrelated nutritiondiet 13 8 12. (CI 2722 2.7–22. SII6 SII6.7 SII67 673 (SII:6. 41892 4.18–9.2 201220 2012–20 20 272 2.7–22 SII6. (SII:6 4189 4.18–9. 20122 2012–2 27 2.7–2 (SII: 418 4.18–9 2012– 2.7– 41 4.18– 2.7 4.18 2. 4.1 4.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Analizar oportunidades y situaciones problemáticas para la adopción del paradigma actual de caries dental, desde las reflexiones de docentes, acerca de aspectos curriculares y de los planes de estudio de los programas de odontología pertenecientes a la Asociación Colombiana de Facultades de Odontología. Metodología: Construcción participativa (n=44 docentes). Se realizaron grupos de discusión y entrevistas semiestructuradas con profesores del área de cariología e integrantes del comité de currículo, para acercarse al contenido de los planes de estudio, entendidos como expresión de la orientación curricular. Resultados: Se consideraron para el análisis 2 categorías: la primera, relacionada con las oportunidades identificando una tendencia que mostró la presencia de la temática de caries dental a lo largo de todo el plan de estudios. En la segunda se identificaron 4 tendencias relacionadas con situaciones problemáticas, y una de ellas reportó que la enseñanza de la caries dental continúa anclada en el enfoque de riesgo, con un escaso acercamiento a la dimensión social de la enfermedad, la otra planteó que en los aspectos teóricos hay una aproximación al paradigma actual, pero en la clínica predomina la concepción tradicional de la enfermedad; y el énfasis restaurativo. La tercera tendencia deja ver que se relacionan las teorías actuales de cariología con la adopción de algunos criterios diagnósticos. Por último, un manejo predominante respecto al paradigma actual de caries por parte de los Odontopediatras. Conclusión: Persisten concepciones reduccionistas de salud y de educación en los enfoques curriculares, que se reflejan en planes de estudio fragmentarios, poco posibilitadores de la incorporación del paradigma actual de caries dental.

ABSTRACT The Global Alliance-for-a-Cavity-Free-Future Colombian Chapter has embraced since 2010 to achieve by 2015 a national-wide cariology-teaching consensus on the new- caries paradigm as a disease continuum, with a series of stages from early to cavitated lesions. Aim: To analyse the opportunities and problematic situations around dental education in the new-caries paradigm from the curriculum perspective in the Colombian Dental Schools Association. Methodology: Two teachers from each school (n=23) were invited to participate: the responsible of most-caries teaching and the representative of curricular design (n=46). Discussion groups were conducted to analyse within the curriculum, facilitanting or limiting aspects, the new-caries paradigm incorporation process. These were complemented with a caries-management-guideline questionnaire answered by each school. Results: 44 teachers of 22 schools participated. Within the opportunity category, a relevant trend was found related with the presence of cariology as a transversal axis of the curriculum. In the problematic situations category, four trends were observed: 1. Cariology teaching continues being linked to the risk approach, without embracing the social dimension of the patology; 2. In the theoretical aspects related with cariology, there is an approximation to the new paradigm, but in the clinical practice the traditional patology conception and the restorative emphasis predominate; 3. The current evidence of cariology is related to the adoption of the diagnostic criteria; and 4. There is a predominant caries-new paradigm management within the paediatric dentists. Conclusion: Caries cirricula delivered in University dental schools in Colombia are fragmented and require the incorporation of the new caries paradigm.

Abstract Policy evaluation and guidance on fluoride use and sugar consumption in Latin American and Caribbean countries (LACC) may provide a scientific evidence basis for policymakers, dental professionals, civil society organizations and individuals committed to improving public oral health. A cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the extent of implementation of policies/guidelines on fluoride use, and sugar consumption in LACC. The study had two stages. First a questionnaire covering four major areas was developed: fluoridation of public water supplies; salt fluoridation; fluoride dentifrices, and sugar consumption. Then, the questionnaire was applied to collect data among representative participants in public oral health from LACC. Ninety-six participants from 18 LACC answered the questionnaire. One-hundred seventy documents were attached, and 285 links of websites were provided by the respondents. Implementation of policies and guidelines on water and table salt fluoridation and processed and ultra-processed food consumption were found in most countries, with some issues in the consensus and coverage. Thus, differences were identified in the extent of implementation of public oral health strategies on sugar consumption and fluoridation among the countries. There is no consensus on the policies in LACC to reduce sugar consumption and for the use of fluoride. A few policies and guidelines were applied in isolated countries, with a variety of strategies and standards. For future actions, it will be important to encourage the development of strategies and public policies within countries, and to evaluate the effectiveness of existing policies in reducing dental caries and in improving oral health in LACC.

Abstract The aim of this paper was to present a summary of the process of developing and preparing the final documents of the national consensus for teaching undergraduate Brazilian dental students the dental caries curriculum in the Portuguese language. The final document was developed in three steps: a) The ABENO and LAOHA cariology group invited experts from all five regions of Brazil to participate in the discussion. The theoretical support for crafting the first draft of the consensus was based on two publications: National Curriculum Guidelines of the Dentistry graduation in Brazil, Ministry of Education (2021) and the competences described in the European Core Curriculum for Cariology (ORCA-ADEE, 2011); b) The group of experts was divided into 5 working groups: G1-Domain, Main and Specific Competences, G2-Essential knowledge, G3-Life course perspective, G4-Social determinants and dental caries, G5- Glossary. The document was finalized by thoroughly reviewing the process using Delphi methodology; c) The 5-chapter document (one from each working group) was submitted to three open public consultations in 2022 (May-June, August, and October) using Google-forms. The suggestions (content/wording) were discussed within the group as: totally accepted, partially accepted, and rejected. A total of 192 suggestions were registered from 31 dental schools in all regions of Brazil. The number of suggestions received per Group were: 84, 28, 26, 24, 30 suggestions for G1, G2, G3, G4 and G5, respectively. The majority of suggestions were totally accepted by the group of experts (n = 172, 89.6%), 15 were partially accepted (7.8%), and 5 were rejected. Conclusion The final document could be considered to be the first national consensus for teaching the dental caries curriculum in Brazil.

Abstract The aim of this multicenter study was to explore the early-life sugar consumption and dietary practices in Latin America as well as to investigate the association between breastfeeding duration and the age at which foods and beverages with added sugars are introduced. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 805 1- to 3-year-old children from 10 Latin American countries, as a complementary study to the Research Observatory for Dental Caries of the Latin American Region (OICAL). A Food Frequency Questionnaire previously tested in different countries was applied to children’s mothers and data on breastfeeding and age at introduction of sugary foods and beverages was collected. Statistical analysis included the Kruskal-Wallis test and Poisson regression with robust variance, with the calculation of crude and adjusted mean ratios (MR) and 95% of confidence intervals (CI). The average age at introduction of sugary foods and beverages was 10.1 months (95%CI 9.7–10.4) and 9.6 (95%CI 9.2–9.9) months, respectively, with a significant variation between countries (p < 0.001). The average daily frequency of sugary foods-beverages was 3.3 times per day (95%CI 3.1–3.5) and varied significantly between countries (p = 0.004). Breastfeeding duration of over six months was associated with an increase in the age of introduction of sweet drinks (16%; MR 1.16; 95%CI 1.05–1.28) and foods (21%; MR 1.21; 95%CI 1.10–1.33). In conclusion, most children from vulnerable settings in Latin America start consuming sugary products in the first year of life and a high frequency of consumption was reported through early childhood. Additionally, breastfeeding contributes to a delay in the introduction of sugary products.

Abstract The aim of this study was to develop and achieve consensus on a cariology teaching framework for dental schools in Latin American Spanish-speaking countries. The Delphi process, with a ≥8 0% pre-defined participants’ agreement, included three phases and a Coordinating Group. During the Preparation phase three panels of experts were selected and invited to participate: a) Regional academic/professional Dental Associations (Associations-Panel): n = 12; b) Regional Dental Schools (Dental-Schools-Panel): existing dental schools (n = 263) from the 19 Spanish-speaking regional countries; c) International academic/professional associations Peer Experts (Peer-Panel): n = 4. Based on consensus documents from Europe, Colombia, the Caribbean, USA, Chile and Spain, and updated scientific evidence, the Coordinating Group developed a baseline framework proposal of domains, main competencies (MC) and specific competencies (SC). The Consultation-Agreement and Consensus phases included three rounds of questionnaires with a step-wise sharing of the MC updated version of the consensus framework with the Dental-Schools-Panel and including SC with the Associations-Panel. Diverse communication strategies were used ( e.g ., independent google-form questionnaires and workshops). Consensus was reached after an on-site Associations-Panel workshop and secret voting, followed by an online meeting with the Peers-Panel. A total of 127 academic/professional institutions participated (Associations-Panel: 11, 91.6%; Dental-Schools-Panel: 112, 42.6%, all countries; Peers-Panel: 4, 100%). The baseline Cariology teaching framework of 5 domains, 10 MC and 92 SC underwent modifications after agreements for a final consensus framework consisting of 5 domains, 10 MC and 85 SC. A Core Cariology curriculum framework in Spanish for Latin American Dental Schools was successfully developed and agreed upon with regional dental academic and professional institutions.

Resumo Avaliar o impacto das condições bucais na qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde bucal (QVRSB) em crianças de dez países da América Latina (AL). Foi realizado um estudo transversal com 930 pares de crianças/pais de 1 a 3 anos de 10 países da AL, como estudo complementar do Research Observatory for Dental Caries of the Latin American Region. A escala ECOHIS, previamente testada e validada em dez países, foi aplicada a pais/cuidadores de crianças para mensurar a QVRSB. A análise estatística incluiu análise descritiva de dados e análise de variância unidirecional (ANOVA-One-Way) para comparar grupos etários com QVRSB. Procedimentos de bootstrapping (1000 reamostragens; 95%IC Bca) foram realizados. A pontuação média da seção 'Impacto na Criança' na AL foi 4,0 (±8,3), na seção ‘Impacto na Família’ foi 2,0 (±4,0) e no escore total do ECOHIS foi 6,0 (±12,0). Na seção 'Impacto na Criança', Argentina 10,0(+2,4) e Venezuela 17,8(±17,5) demonstraram pontuações médias superiores aos dados totais da AL. Na seção ‘Impacto na Família’, os países com pontuações médias mais altas foram Argentina 4,9(±2,0), Equador 2,1(±3,1) e Venezuela 7,9(±7,8). No escore total do ECOHIS, Argentina 15,1 (±4,1) e Venezuela 25,7(±25,2) apresentaram escores médios superiores aos valores de AL. Houve associação entre a idade das crianças e o relato dos pais de impacto na QVRSB (p<0,001). As crianças de três anos tiveram média maior quando comparadas às de um e dois anos, tanto nas seções 'Impacto na Criança' e ‘Impacto na Família’ (p<0,001), quanto no escore total ECOHIS (p<0,001). Em conclusão, houveram diferenças na QVRSB entre os países da América Latina, impactando de forma mais significativa as crianças mais velhas.

Abstract To assess the impact of oral conditions on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in infants in ten Latin America countries (LAC). A cross-sectional study was conducted with 930 pairs of 1-to-3-year-old children/parents from 10 LAC, as a complementary study of the Research Observatory for Dental Caries of the Latin American Region. The scale ECOHIS, previously tested and valid in ten countries, was applied to parents/caregivers of children to measure OHRQoL. Statistical analysis included descriptive data analysis and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA-One-Way) were performed to compare age groups with OHRQoL. Bootstrapping procedures (1000 re-samplings; 95%CI Bca) were performed. The mean scores of the ‘Child Impact’ section in the LAC was 4.0(±8.3), in the ‘Family Impact’ section was 2.0(±4.0), and in overall ECOHIS score was 6.0(±12.0). In the ‘Child Impact’ section, Argentina 10.0(+2.4) and Venezuela 17.8(±17.5) demonstrated mean scores higher than the LAC total data. In the ‘Family Impact’ section, the countries with higher mean scores were Argentina 4.9(±2.0), Ecuador 2.1(±3.1) and Venezuela 7.9(±7.8). In the overall ECOHIS score, Argentina 15.1 (±4.1) and Venezuela 25.7(±25.2) has higher mean scores than the values of LAC. There is an association between children's age and parents' report of impact on the OHRQoL (p<0.001). Three-year-olds had a higher mean when compared to one- and two-year-olds, both in the Impact on the Child and Impact on the Family (p<0.001) sections, as well as in the overall ECOHIS (p<0.001). In conclusion, there are differences in OHRQoL among Latin American countries, impacting older children more significantly.

RESUMEN La caries radicular es un proceso dinámico de destrucción localizada de las superficies radiculares, dependiente de biopelícula. Esta patología afecta principalmente a la población adulta mayor con superficies radiculares expuestas y altera su calidad de vida. Las vulnerabilidades y multimorbilidades, frecuentes en este grupo de edad, limitan el autocuidado oral y son criterios para considerar en la comprensión y manejo de la patología. El diagnóstico de las lesiones de caries radicular implica conocimiento de la estructura radicular sana, los factores indicadores o de riesgo, los mecanismos de desarrollo de las lesiones y los criterios para su detección y valoración. La elección correcta de opciones de manejo tanto del riesgo como de las lesiones de caries, enfocada en la preservación de la estructura, evidencia la comprensión de la caries radicular. La caries radicular plantea un desafío para la academia, los sistemas de salud, la práctica clínica dental y la población, debido a que sus indicadores están aumentando en relación con el envejecimiento poblacional y la mayor conservación de dientes naturales. El propósito de esta revisión de tema fue presentar el estado del entendimiento actual de caries radicular. Se incluyeron 81 artículos publicados entre 1971 y 2021, sobre embriogénesis de la raíz; prevalencia, etiopatogenia; características de las lesiones; diagnóstico y propuestas de manejo a nivel del riesgo individual y de las lesiones. Esta actualización es pertinente por el reto que conlleva la presencia cada vez mayor de esta patología, junto con sus consecuencias. El planteamiento de su estado del arte sugiere áreas de investigación.

ABSTRACT Root caries is a dynamic process of localized destruction of the root surfaces, dependent on the biofilm. Its pathology mainly affects the elderly toothed population with exposed root surfaces and disrupts their quality of life. Vulnerabilities and multimorbidities, frequent in this age group, limit oral self-care and are criteria to be considered in understanding and managing the disease. The root caries lesions diagnosis implies knowledge about the healthy root structure, indicators or risk factors, caries lesions development mechanism, and the detection and assessment criteria. The correct selection of caries risk and management options preserving tooth structure shows the understanding of root caries. The root caries represents a challenge for academia, health systems, dental practice, and the population because its indicators are increasing related to aging population and greater conservation of natural teeth. This review aimed to present the state of the current understanding of root caries. Eighty-one papers published between 1971 and 2021 were included. This considered root embryogenesis; the current understanding of root caries, its prevalence and etiopathogenesis; characteristics of the lesions; diagnosis, and care proposals both at the individual risk level, and at the lesions level. This update is relevant due to the risk that the increasing presence of this pathology carries, together with its consequences. The statement of its state of the art suggests areas of research.

Abstract Roughness-tactile perception is part of activity assessment in initial-caries-lesions. Hypothesizing that a probe’s design influences this examiner’s assessment, four probes were designed. The aims of this study were to select the probe with highest inter-/intra-examiners’ roughness-assessment agreement and to determine its diagnostic accuracy on artificial initial-caries lesions. A pilot study was conducted with trained dentists to select one controlled-pressure probe design (n = 4) by assessing roughness on known-roughness metal plaques with 5-point Likert scale. Diagnostic accuracy of roughness assessment was conducted with the selected controlled-pressure probe and the WHO-probe on sound and artificial initial-caries-lesion (n = 20) human enamel blocks. Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) and quadratic weighted-Kappa scores were used to assess examiners’ reproducibility and Multilevel Poisson models to determine diagnostic accuracy between both probes controlling for confounding variables. The probe design with the highest inter/intra-examiner’s agreement (ICC = 0.96) was selected for subsequent analyses. Unadjusted sensitivity, specificity and accuracy values were for the controlled-pressure and the WHO probes: 71.1%,90.6%,81.2%, and 67.4%,84.6%,75.8%, respectively (p > 0.05). Examiner remained the most important factor influencing diagnostic accuracy. While this study did not show significantly higher diagnostic accuracy of the designed controlled-pressure vs. the WHO-probe when used by trained dentists, all over roughness-assessment accuracy and reproducibility were high.

Resumen Introducción y objetivo: las cremas dentales requieren de la disponibilidad de fluoruro químicamente soluble para tener efecto anticaries. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo determinar qué parte de la concentración total de fluoruro (FT) en las cinco marcas de pastas dentales colombianas para niños/familias más vendidas corresponde al fluoruro total químicamente soluble (FTS). Materiales y métodos: se recolectaron tres tubos de cinco marcas diferentes en tres supermercados de cadena; una por tienda, en cinco ciudades colombianas (n=3/marca/ciudad): Colgate-Smiles-6+, Kolynos-Super-Blanco, Fortident-Cuatriacción, Colgate-Triple-Acción, Fluocardent. Las concentraciones de FT y FST se determinaron en cada una de las muestras frescas utilizando técnica directa con electrodo específico y un protocolo estandarizado. La concentración de FT se comparó con la concentración declarada por el fabricante. Se compararon las diferencias entre las concentraciones de FT y FST de la misma marca compradas en diferentes ciudades a con un análisis ANOVA (α=5%). Resultados: La mayoría de las cremas dentales cumplió con la concentración de FT declarada en la etiqueta. Una de las cremas dentale tenía una formulación de fluoruro/abrasivo no compatible y TSF <TF; sin embargo, aún cumplía con el requisito mínimo de TSF para ejercer un efecto preventivo de caries (> 1000 ppm). Las concentraciones de TF y TSF de las pastas de dientes no difirieron entre las ciudades (p> 0.05). Conclusión: Las muestras frescas de cremas dentales de las marcas más vendidas en cinco ciudades colombianas contienen concentraciones de fluoruro químicamente disponibles con el potencial de controlar y prevenir la caries dental.

Abstract Introduction and objective: Toothpastes should contain chemically soluble fluoride to have anti-caries efficacy. This study aimed at determining how much of the total fluoride (TF) concentration in the five top-selling children/family Colombian-toothpaste brands corresponds to total chemically soluble fluoride (TSF). Materials and methods: a convenience sample of three tubes of each of the following five toothpaste brands were obtained from three different chain stores, one-per-store, in five Colombian cities (n=3/brand/city): Colgate-Smiles-6+, Kolynos-Super-Blanco, Fortident-Cuatriacción, Colgate-Triple-Acción, Fluocardent. TF (sum of all toothpaste’s fluoride) and TSF (toothpaste’s chemically soluble fluoride) concentrations were determined in each fresh toothpaste sample (before expiry date) using a standardized ion-specific electrode direct-technique protocol. TF concentration was compared with the manufacturers’ declared concentration. The difference between TF and TSF’s concentrations purchased in different cities was compared with a one-way ANOVA (5%). Results: Most toothpastes’ TF concentration complied with what was declared in the label. One toothpaste had a non-compatible fluoride/abrasive fluoride formulation and TSF < TF; however, it still complied with the minimum TSF requirement to exert a caries-preventive effect (>1000 ppm). Toothpastes’ TF and TSF concentrations did not differ between cities (p>0.05). Conclusion: Fresh samples of highly distributed toothpaste brands sold in five Colombian-cities contain chemically available fluoride concentrations with the potential to control and prevent dental caries.

Resumo Introdução e objetivo: os cremes dentais requerem a disponibilidade de fluoreto quimicamente solúvel para ter um efeito anticárie. O presente estudo determinou a proporção de fluoreto total (FT) que corresponde ao fluoreto total quimicamente solúvel (FST) em cinco marcas de creme dental amplamente distribuídas na Colômbia. Materiais e métodos: três tubos de cinco marcas diferentes foram coletados em três supermercados da rede; uma por loja, em cinco cidades colombianas (n = 3 / marca / cidade): Colgate-Smiles-6 +, Kolynos-Super-Blanco, Fortident-Quad, Colgate-Triple-Action, Fluocardent. As concentrações de FT e FST foram determinadas em cada uma das amostras frescas, utilizando a técnica direta com eletrodo específico e um protocolo padronizado. A concentração de FT foi comparada com a concentração declarada pelo fabricante. As diferenças entre as concentrações de FT e FST da mesma marca comprada em diferentes cidades foram comparadas com a análise ANOVA (α = 5%). Resultados: a maioria das marcas possui concentrações de flúor que atendem à concentração declarada pelo fabricante. Uma marca contém uma formulação de sal abrasivo e fluoreto quimicamente não compatível e FST menor que FT; no entanto, as amostras frescas atenderam à concentração necessária para exercer um efeito anticárie (> 1000 ppm). As concentrações de FT e TSF não foram significativamente diferentes entre amostras da mesma marca compradas em diferentes cidades (p> 0,05). Conclusão: as amostras frescas (analisadas antes do prazo de validade) das cinco marcas de creme dental com maior distribuição na Colômbia contêm concentrações de fluoreto quimicamente solúvel, com potencial para controlar e prevenir a cárie dentária.

Resumen Introducción y objetivo: la severidad de la fluorosis dental refleja exposición a fluoruros durante el desarrollo del esmalte. Recientemente se han reportado asociaciones entre la exposición prenatal y postnatal a fluoruros y efectos negativos en el neurodesarrollo. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir y comparar la severidad y el patrón de distribución de la fluorosis en las denticiones primaria y permanente, como base para discutir la temporalidad de la exposición en niños viviendo en áreas endémicas en el departamento del Huila. Materiales y métodos: odontólogos entrenados diagnosticaron fluorosis en 840 niños (preescolares y escolares) de cuatro municipios usando el índice de Thylstrup & Fejerskov. Para estimar la prevalencia de las diferentes severidades, cada niño se clasifico de acuerdo con la severidad más alta en boca. La distribución de la prevalencia de severidades por grupo etario y tipo de dentición se reportan como tasas de prevalencia (%). Resultados: la prevalencia en preescolares y escolares fue de 97.2% y 99.9%, respectivamente y la fluorosis moderada la más prevalente (75.6% y 63.5%, respectivamente). En ambas denticiones, la fluorosis leve fue más prevalente en los dientes anteriores que en posteriores. Las severidades moderada y severa tuvieron mayor prevalencia en dientes posteriores que en anteriores. Conclusiones: el patrón de distribución de la severidad de la fluorosis sugiere exposición prenatal y postnatal a fluoruros, por encima de los niveles recomendados. Este estudio resalta la importancia de la alidación de la fluorosis del dental como un potencial biomarcador histórico de exposición a luoruros en momentos críticos para el neurodesarrollo.

Abstract Introduction and objective: dental fluorosis severity reflects fluoride exposure during dental enamel development. Recently, prenatal and postnatal exposure to fluoride has been associated with negative neurodevelopmental outcomes. The aim of this study was to describe and compare the severity and distribution pattern of dental fluorosis in the primary and permanent dentition, as a basis to discuss the timing and extent of fluoride exposure of children living in endemic areas of fluorosis in the department of Huila. Materials and methods: 840 children (preschoolers and schoolchildren) from four municipalities of the Huila Department were examined by trained dentists for dental fluorosis using the Thylstrup & Fejerskov Index. To estimate the prevalence of severities of fluorosis, each child was classified according to the most severe score. The distribution of the prevalence of enamel fluorosis severity by age-group and type of dentition were reported as prevalence rates (%). Results: Prevalence of dental fluorosis in preschoolers was of 97.2% and in schoolers of 99.9%. For both preschoolers and schoolers moderate fluorosis was the most prevalent (75.6% and 63.5%, respectively). For both primary and permanent teeth, mild fluorosis was more prevalent in anterior teeth than in posterior teeth. Moderate and severe fluorosis were more prevalent in posterior teeth than in anterior teeth. Conclusions: the distribution pattern of the severity of dental fluorosis suggests both prenatal and postnatal exposure to fluoride above recommended levels. This study raises the importance of the validation of dental fluorosis as a potential historical biomarker of fluoride exposure at moments that are critical for neurodevelopment.

Resumo Introdução e objetivo: a severidade da fluorose dentária reflete a exposição a fluoretos durante o desenvolvimento do esmalte. Recentemente, associações entre a exposição pré-natal e pós-natal ao fluoretos e efeitos negativos no desenvolvimento neurológico foram relatadas. O objetivo deste estudo é descrever e comparar o padrão de severidade e distribuição da fluorose na dentição decídua e permanente, como intuito para a discussão sobre a temporalidade da exposição em crianças moradoras em áreas endêmicas de fluorose no departamento de Huila, Colômbia. Materiais e métodos: Cirurgiões-dentistas treinados diagnosticaram fluorose em 840 crianças (pré-escolares e escolares) de quatro municípios, utilizando o índice de Thylstrup & Fejerskov. Para estimar a prevalência dos diferentes estágios de severidade, cada criança foi classificada de acordo com o escore mais severo da boca. A distribuição da prevalência de fluorose nos diferentes estágios de severidade por faixa etária e tipo de dentição é apresentada como taxa de prevalência (%). Resultados: a prevalência de fluorose em pré-escolares foi de 97,2% e em escolares de 99,9%. Fluorose moderada foi a mais prevalente (75,6% e 63,5%, respectivamente). Em ambas as dentições, a fluorose leve foi mais prevalente nos dentes anteriores do que nos posteriores. Porém, tanto fluorose moderada como severa foram mais prevalentes nos dentes posteriores do que nos anteriores. Conclusões: o padrão de distribuição da severidade da fluorose sugere uma exposição pré- e pós-natal a fluoretos acima de níveis recomendados. Este estudo salienta a importância da validação da fluorose dentária como um potencial biomarcador histórico da exposição ao fluoretos durante momentos críticos para o neurodesenvolvimento.

Abstract Dental caries can be effectively managed and prevented from developing into cavitated lesions while preserving tooth structure at all levels. However, the strong correlation between caries and socioeconomic factors may compromise the efficacy of preventive strategies. The high prevalence of persistent inequalities in dental caries in Latin American and Caribbean countries (LACC) is a matter of concern. The estimates of the burden of disease in some countries in this region are outdated or absent. This paper aims to summarize and present the final recommendations of a regional Consensus for Dental Caries Prevalence, Prospects, and Challenges for LACC. This consensus is based on four articles that were written by a team of Latin American experts, reviewed by dental associations, and presented and discussed in two consensus events. The following domains were explored: epidemiology, risk factors, prevention strategies, and management of dental caries with a focus on restorative procedures. Dental caries can manifest throughout the lifespan of an individual, making it a matter of concern for infants, children, adults, and older people alike. The prevalence rates of untreated caries in deciduous and permanent teeth are high in many parts of the world, including LACCs. Previous evidence suggests that the prevalence of dental caries in 12-year-olds is moderate to high in most Latin American countries. Moreover, the prevalence of treatment needs and dental caries in the adult and elderly population can also be regarded as high in this region. The risk/protective factors (e.g., sugar consumption, exposure to fluoride, and oral hygiene) probably operate similarly in all LACCs, although variations in the interplay of these factors in some countries and within the same country cannot be ruled out. Although salt and water fluoridation programs are implemented in many countries, there is a need for implementation of a surveillance policy. There is also room for improvement with regard to the introduction of minimal intervention techniques in practice and public health programs. Dental caries is a marker of social disadvantage, and oral health promotion programs and interventions aimed at reducing the burden of dental caries in LACCs must consider the complexity of the socioeconomic dynamics in this region. There is an urgent need to promote engagement of stakeholders, policymakers, medical personnel, universities, dental associations, community members, and industries to develop regional plans that enhance the oral health agenda for LACCs. A list of recommendations has been presented to underpin strategies aimed at reducing the prevalence and severity of dental caries and improving the quality of life of the impacted LACC population in the near future.

Abstract Identifying the risk factors for dental caries is vital in epidemiology and clinical practices for developing effective preventive strategies, both, at the individual and collective levels. Different causality/determination models have been proposed to understand the development process of dental caries. In the present review, we designed a model inspired by the world-known social determinants models proposed in the 90s and more recently in the 10s, wherein the contextual factors are placed more externally and encompass the individual factors. The contextual factors included those related to the cultural and societal values, as well as the social and health government policies. The individual factors were classified into the following categories: socioeconomic (social class, occupation, income, and education level), demographic characteristics (age, sex, and ethnicity), behavioral factors (non-use of fluoride dentifrice, sugar consumption, poor oral hygiene, and lack of preventive dental care), and biological factors (recent caries experience/active caries lesions, biofilm retentive factors, developmental defects of the enamel, disabilities, saliva amount and quality, cariogenic biofilm). Each of these variables was addressed, while focusing on the current evidence from studies conducted in Latin American and Caribbean countries (LACC). Based on the proposed model, educational aspects were addressed, and individual caries risk assessment and management decisions were proposed; further, implications for public health policies and clinical practice were described. The identification of modifiable risk factors for dental caries should be the basis for multi-strategy actions that consider the diversity of Latin American communities.