Hispanic Culture and Dental Caries Risk Assessment

Dental decay is one of the most prevalent infectious diseases in humans and is a complex process involving both protective and pathogenic factors. Dental caries risk assessment is a methodology utilized by dentists to assess the risk factors of each patient to determine treatment recommendations and prevent the disease process of caries. Culture influences our daily decisions, including those that affect oral health. This thesis examines the four categories of caries risk assessment (Fluoride Exposure, Caries Experience, Sugary Foods and Drinks, and Dental Home), as defined by the American Dental Association, and the effect Hispanic culture has in conjunction with each risk assessment category.