YOUNG ADULTS AND ORAL PATHOLOGY: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

This review aims to explore the most common oral pathologies encountered in young adults, highlighting their causes, clinical features, and management strategies. A narrative review was performed using a non-systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Keywords included “oral pathology,” “young adults,” “dental caries,” “erosion,” “endodontic disease,” “oral lesions,” and “tooth loss.” Studies from the last 10–15 years focusing on individuals aged 18 to 35 were selected based on clinical relevance. Young adulthood is often marked by lifestyle changes and irregular dental attendance, increasing vulnerability to various oral pathologies. Caries, dental erosion, endodontic infections, mucosal lesions, and partial edentulism are commonly observed and frequently underestimated. Paraclinical investigations, including bitewing and periapical radiographs, pulp vitality testing, microbial cultures, salivary tests, and, when indicated, biopsy, play a key role in the early detection and accurate diagnosis of oral diseases. These conditions, if left untreated, can affect function, esthetics, and overall well-being. Stage III or IV, grade C periodontitis, although less frequent, remains a critical condition in young adults due to its rapid progression and silent onset. It requires prompt diagnosis, mechanical therapy, possible antibiotic support, and long-term maintenance. Effective management of dental caries, erosions, and endodontic disease involves early detection, behavior modification, minimally invasive or restorative therapy, and preventive education. Partial edentulism should be addressed through individualized prosthetic solutions, considering function, esthetics, and long-term oral stability. A proactive, patient-centered approach is essential to preserve oral health and quality of life in young adults.