A Critical Re-Evaluation of Paradigms in Caries Management: Integrating Microbial Ecological Perspectives into Clinical Practice

Abstract

In recent years, the approach to dental caries management has undergone significant scrutiny, emphasizing the need for a paradigm shift towards a microbial ecological model. This study examines the traditional restorative paradigm and argues for an integrative approach that considers the microbial dynamics influencing caries progression and reversal. Utilizing a systematic review of contemporary literature coupled with clinical case studies, we propose a framework that centers on the role of biofilm management and the modulation of oral microbiota as pivotal components in caries therapy. Our findings suggest that adopting this model not only enhances patient outcomes but also aligns dental practices with contemporary scientific understanding. The implications for clinical guidelines and educational practices are profound, heralding a transformative era in caries management.