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An Update on Demineralization/Remineralization (ce73) - Introduction

An Update on Demineralization/ Remineralization

COURSE NUMBER: 73

Robert V. Faller, BS

Credit Hours:

3 Hour(s)

PDF

This course was one of the first courses available on dentalcare.com. The course has been updated without changing the original content, which is still valid. The update includes information on new technologies emerging for caries detection...

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Overview

This course was one of the first courses available on dentalcare.com. The course has been updated without changing the original content, which is still valid. The update includes information on new technologies emerging for caries detection and evaluation as well as information on the evidence-based approach for dentistry in the area of demineralization and remineralization. This primarily includes the use of fluorides with information and resources on how to approach evidence-based dentistry for clinical practice. This course begins with an historical perspective on caries as a concern in the 1940s as a major public health problem and moves to the clinical practice today...from cure to prevention. An up-to-date understanding of the caries process in both enamel and root caries are detailed through the discussion of demineralization/remineralization. This course has been widely used by clinical staff (dental assistants, hygienists, and dentists in clinical practice) as well as students from all over the world. This course is not meant to be a comprehensive cariology course but rather an introduction to the concepts of demineralization and remineralization and how they can and should be incorporated into clinical practice. Upon completion of this course, participants will understand the continued need for fluoride to help protect against the ongoing challenge to tooth structure, secondary lesions and root caries. Participants will also appreciate the need to examine the literature and evidence when applying clinical preventive techniques for caries prevention.


Demineralization/Remineralization begins with an historical perspective on caries. Caries was identified as a major public health problem in the 1940s. At that time, caries was the single greatest reason for rejecting draftees from enlisting in the military services in the United States in World War II. From that historical view, this course moves to the clinical practice today...from cure to prevention.


An up-to-date understanding of the caries process in both enamel and root caries are detailed through the discussion of demineralization/remineralization. Changes in approach using an "evidence-based dentistry" view of demineralization/remineralization are an integral part of this course.

  • Intended Audience:

    Dentists, Dental Hygienists, Dental Assistants, Dental Students, Dental Hygiene Students, Dental Assistant Students

  • Date Course Online:

    Jul 15, 2005

  • Last Revision Date:

    Jan 29, 2021

  • Course Expiration Date:

    May 31, 2024

  • Cost:

    Free

  • Method:

    Self-instructional

  • AGD Subject Code(s):

    11

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, the dental professional should be able to:


  • Explain the process of demineralization/remineralization.
  • Discuss the role of calcium and phosphate in the remineralization process.
  • State where caries occurs first within the enamel structure.
  • Compare and contrast enamel and root surface caries.
  • Compare and contrast the remineralization process on permanent and primary teeth.
  • Discuss elements in clinical examination vital to detection of (a) enamel caries and (b) root surface caries.
  • Explain the current approach to evaluating the evidence in answering clinical questions regarding fluorides and caries prevention.
  • Provide a scientific, literature-based rationale for the effectiveness of fluoride products in preventing dental caries.

Disclaimers

  • P&G is providing these resource materials to dental professionals. We do not own this content nor are we responsible for any material herein.
  • Participants must always be aware of the hazards of using limited knowledge in integrating new techniques or procedures into their practice.  Only sound evidence-based dentistry should be used in patient therapy.

Note:  Registration is required to take test.

Author(s)

Conflict of Interest Disclosure Statement

  • Robert V. Faller is a retired employee of P&G. He has no relevant financial relationships to disclose.
Robert V Faller

Robert V. Faller

BS

Robert Faller has in excess of 40 years in the Oral Care Research field. He retired from P&G after more than 31 years in Oral Care, where he focused on caries and enamel related research as P&G’s chief cariologist. He is editor of Volume...

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Submission Information

Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) Submission For credit transfers to appear in your AGD account in real time, make sure to add your AGD membership number in the field provided on the “Share Your Test Score” page.


CE Broker For all states that use CE Broker for licensure, “proof of completions” are electronically reported the first of every month. If a course was taken in November, the “proof of completion” will be submitted the beginning of December.

Recognition

AGD Pace Logo

Approved PACE Program Provider

THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY


Nationally Approved PACE Program Provider for FAGD/MAGD credit.

Approval does not imply acceptance by any regulatory authority or AGD endorsement.


8/1/2021 to 7/31/2027

Provider ID# 211886