classification of caries [L, classis, collection, facere, to make, caries, decay] , a system for dividing dental caries into several classes based on the part of the tooth they affect. Class I caries are pits and fissures in the occlusal surfaces of posterior teeth or the lingual surfaces of maxillary incisors. Class II caries affect the proximal surfaces of premolars and molars but have not broken through to the occlusal surfaces. Class III caries affect the proximal surfaces of incisors and canines, excluding the incisal angles. Class IV caries affect the proximal surfaces of incisors and canines, including the incisal angles. Class V pertains to caries that affect the gingival third of the labial, buccal, and lingual surfaces. A modification of this classification system (not included in Black’s Classification) adds another group, Class VI, consisting of caries on the incisal edges and cusp tips. Classification of caries provides dentists a basis for design of cavity preparations according to the type of restorative material used. Also called Black’s Classification of Caries, artificial classification of caries. See also cavity classification.
