Correlation of ICDAS-LAA and ORA test for caries risk assessment: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Dental caries is the most common chronic disease of children aged 6–11 years. The International Caries Detection and Assessment System-Lesion Activity Assessment (ICDAS-LAA) is a precise tool for the clinical assessment of dental caries by visual appearance, tactile feeling, and potential for plaque accumulation. Ora test is a chairside tool to estimate the ability of acid produced by bacteria to cause demineralization, in a suitable environment. Aim of this study is to correlate ICDAS-LAA and Ora test in assessing the caries risk of a patient on the dental chair. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 school children aged between 6 and 9 years were included in the study. Of 60 children, 30 (Group A) were caries free and 30 (Group B) had decayed missing extraction, filled (DMF) score of 1–3. All the children were initially subjected to ICDAS-LAA scoring, which was assessed by one examiner followed by chairside Ora test performed by another examiner. Results: Statistical analysis was done using Pearson correlation test, and a negative linear relation was found between the time taken for color change in Ora test and ICDAS-LAA scores. Conclusion: A direct correlation exists between ICDAS-LAA scores and Ora test, which shows that microbial activity correlates well with lesion activity.

Keywords

• Caries risk assessment
• ICDAS-LAA
• Ora test