Past Caries as Risk Indicator — NDEB AFK MCQ

Correct answer: D — Past caries experience (previous DMFT/dmft scores)

Past caries experience is the single strongest predictor (risk indicator) of future caries development. Patients with a history of caries (high DMFT/dmft) are significantly more likely to develop new carious lesions than those with no caries history. While multiple factors contribute to caries risk (diet, fluoride, saliva, microflora, socioeconomic status), no individual factor predicts future caries as strongly as past caries experience. This is the basis for risk-based recall intervals and targeted preventive interventions.

Reference: Fejerskov & Kidd – Dental Caries: The Disease and Its Clinical Management, 3rd ed., 2015