Which term describes caries that occur at the margin of a previous restoration?

• A. Beginning occlusal caries
• B. Occlusal caries
• C. Recurrent caries
• D. Root caries

Answer: (C)

This question targets recognizing caries that form at the edge of a previous restoration. When a restoration is placed, microgaps at the margin or undercuts can let bacteria persist and continue demineralizing the tooth right at the boundary. The result is a new lesion that starts at or beneath the restoration margin, described as recurrent (secondary) caries. The other terms refer to caries on natural tooth surfaces not adjacent to a restoration, such as initial occlusal pit caries or root surface decay, so they don’t fit the scenario. Recurrent caries is the best term because it specifically denotes decay that reappears at the site of a prior restoration.