In root caries, the surface layer may or may not be present.

In root caries, the surface layer may or may not be present.

• A. Always present
• B. Always absent
• C. May be present
• D. Never present

Answer: (C)

Root caries can show variability in lesion structure. The surface layer is the outer, relatively mineralized zone that can slow further demineralization, but on root surfaces (cementum/dentin) its formation is not guaranteed and its persistence depends on factors like lesion age, activity, and remineralization conditions. If the lesion progresses slowly or remineralization occurs, a surface layer may be preserved; if demineralization is rapid or the layer is destroyed, it may be absent. Therefore, the surface layer may be present.

Root caries can show variability in lesion structure. The surface layer is the outer, relatively mineralized zone that can slow further demineralization, but on root surfaces (cementum/dentin) its formation is not guaranteed and its persistence depends on factors like lesion age, activity, and remineralization conditions. If the lesion progresses slowly or remineralization occurs, a surface layer may be preserved; if demineralization is rapid or the layer is destroyed, it may be absent. Therefore, the surface layer may be present.