Dental Caries in Adults

Author/s: 
Elizabeth Alpert, Hugh Silk, Lisa Simon
Date Added: 
November 13, 2025
Journal/Publication: 
JAMA Insights
Publication Date: 
November 12, 2025
Type: 
Meta-analyses, Reviews, and Guidelines
Format: 
Article
DOI (1): 
10.1001/jama.2025.19029

RPR Commentary

A review of the causes, presentations, and management of patients with dental caries with an emphasis on what primary care clinicians can do the help patients until they can see a dentist. James W. Mold, MD, MPH

Abstract

Dental caries (tooth decay or cavities) refers to demineralization of teeth, which occurs after bacteria metabolize dietary carbohydrates into acid. More than 90% of US adults experience caries and 26% have untreated caries.

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