Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment Index as an Instrument to Advance, Apply, and Advocate Dental Health Across Healthcare Levels: A Scoping Review.
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Abstract
Aims and background: Preventing dental caries in rural areas necessitates a multifaceted approach according to the specific needs of these communities. Limited access to dental care and educational resources may exacerbate the existence of caries in child health. Effective prevention strategies must prioritize improving access to preventive services and reducing disease burden. The aim is to discuss the Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment (CAST) index as a crucial tool for advancing, applying, and advocating for effective dental health solutions across all levels of healthcare.
Materials and methods: A search of PubMed and Scopus databases identified 19 relevant articles on the CAST index for dental caries in children, including 11 cross-sectional studies, 2 longitudinal studies, 4 epidemiological surveys, 1 randomized control trial, and 1 randomized clinical trial. No systematic reviews were found. Data extraction followed a preapproved protocol.
Results: The majority of the included studies concluded that since the innovative CAST index is economical and easy to comprehend, its use in epidemiology is encouraging. It is comparable to the World Health Organization (WHO) criterion for diagnosis and may even be of higher diagnostic value due to the detailed reporting of caries progression stages. Planning caries control programs at the individual and community levels may find it to be a helpful tool.
Conclusion: The CAST instrument could address gaps in dental care in rural and underserved areas where traditional services are lacking. To enhance access to preventive and restorative care, it is essential to involve policymakers in integrating these innovative solutions into existing healthcare systems. Further research and collaboration are encouraged to advance and advocate for equitable dental health services.
How to cite this article: Panamgipalli S, Pawar M, Shirsat SM, et al. Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment Index as an Instrument to Advance, Apply, and Advocate Dental Health Across Healthcare Levels: A Scoping Review. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2025;18(5):580-586.
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