As the dental professional we like to think we are immune to something as pedestrian as caries. Well, check out this list of evidence based risk factors and disease indicators. It might have you reaching for the fluoride varnish at work tomorrow!

• Active caries in previous 24 months

• Xerostomia (medication, radiation, or disease-induced)

• Exposed root surfaces

• Active orthodontic treatment

• Many multi-surface restorations

• Suboptimal fluoride exposure

• Cariogenic diet

• Poor oral hygiene/visible plaque

• Restoration overhangs and open margins

• Chemo or H/N radiation therapy

• Drug/alcohol abuse

• High titers of cariogenic bacteria

• Poor family dental health

• Genetic abnormality of teeth

• Eating disorders

• Irregular dental care or lack of a dental home

• Developmental or acquired enamel defects

• Prolonged nursing (bottle or breast)

• Physical or mental disability with inability or unavailability of performing proper oral health care

Reference-ADA Scientific Panel Issues Evidence-Based Clinical Recommendations: Patients at elevated risk for developing cavities benefit from applying topical fluoride November 01, 2013