Resumo

SEGURA EGEA, Juan José. Sensitivity and specificity of conventional methods for diagnosis of occlusal caries according to scientific evidence . RCOE [online]. 2002, vol.7, n.5, pp.491-501. ISSN 1138-123X.

The diagnosis of non-overt occlusal decay is a challenge for the dentist. Exact diagnosis of the presence or absence of dental caries in occlusal surfaces is difficult and has an inherent uncertainty leading to an ample variety of therapeutic decisions. The attainment of more sensible and specific diagnostic methods for the diagnosis of non-overt occlusal decay would contribute to develop better based preventive or conservative therapeutic strategies. The sensitivity and specificity of the classical diagnostic methods for occlusal caries are analysed according to the scientific evidence available. 

Palavras-chave : Dental caries; Evidence-based dentistry; Sensitivity; Specificity.