Which surfaces are involved in facial and lingual caries that are commonly found in the cervical region?

• A. Facial and lingual surfaces
• B. Proximal surfaces
• C. Occlusal surfaces
• D. Interproximal surfaces

Answer: (A)

Cervical caries most often involve the facial and lingual aspects because this region near the gingival margin is where plaque tends to accumulate and, when gums recede, root surfaces become exposed. The cervical area on these surfaces has cementum and dentin that are more susceptible to demineralization than enamel, making caries more likely to develop there. Proximal (between-teeth) and interproximal caries describe lesions along contact areas, while occlusal caries occur on chewing surfaces, so they are less characteristic of lesions seen in the cervical region. Clinically, the cervical area on facial and lingual surfaces is the typical site for these lesions, often in root surface caries when recession exposes the root.