Can result in a chronic, asyptomatic state. Eventually, remaining enamel will either fracture of demineralize until only the root itself exists, a brown or black irregular structure. Streptococcus mutans is the primary etiologic agent. The use of three or more medications has been shown to significantly increase the risk of root caries on subjects over 60 years of age. Root caries seem to demonstrate an increase in incidence with age.
Root caries can be difficult to observe intraorally.
Primary lesions may be located interproximally. Easily viewed root surfaces show characteristic patterns of root caries. Early onset root caries often has a white to yellow color that may be difficult to distinguish from an intact root surface. As the caries progress,, it may change to a tan or brown hue. Inactive, arrested root caries are brown to black.