Caries

Caries is probably the single most important factor related to pulpal and periapical diseases. Long before the caries actually reaches the pulp, bacterial antigens from the lesion may invade the pulp through dentinal tubules and stimulate an inflammatory reaction in the pulp. Teeth with caries extending into dentine are always potential suspects from an endodontic point of view.

A caries check is performed with the help of a good light and mirror, and a fibreoptic light is often of great assistance. A probe is a necessary tool in searching for secondary caries together with bite-wing radiographs. It is important to remember, however, that deep caries does not automatically cause permanent pulpal damage, other additional investigations must be undertaken in order to make the diagnosis.