Rampant caries are commonly seen in which populations?

• A. Elderly with xerostomia
• B. Early childhood caries, radiation caries, and drug-related caries
• C. Adults with high sugar intake
• D. Post-eruptive lesions only

Answer: (B)

Rampant caries refers to rapid, widespread decay that progresses quickly when protective factors like saliva are reduced and a high cariogenic challenge is present. This pattern is classically seen in young children with early childhood caries, in patients who have undergone head-and-neck radiation that markedly decreases saliva production, and in individuals taking medications that cause dry mouth or otherwise alter the oral environment. The combination of low salivary flow, reduced buffering, and frequent exposure to fermentable carbohydrates allows multiple teeth to deteriorate in a short time, which is why the grouping of ECC, radiation caries, and drug-related caries best fits the concept. While elderly individuals with xerostomia can be at risk, and high sugar intake increases caries risk, those scenarios don’t capture the rapid, widespread nature of rampant caries as effectively. Post-eruptive lesions alone do not define this pattern.