1 Flashcards
What is the definition of dental caries?
Dental caries is an infectious microbiologic disease that causes localized dissolution and destruction of calcified dental tissues.
What does cariology study?
Cariology studies dental caries, including:
* Etiology (Causes)
* Histopathology (How caries affect tooth structure)
* Epidemiology (How common caries are in different populations)
* Diagnosis
* Prevention & Treatment
What are the four principal factors of caries formation?
The four principal factors are:
* Bacteria in Dental Plaque (Cariogenic Biofilm)
* Substrate (Fermentable Carbohydrates – Dietary Sugars)
* A Susceptible Tooth Surface
* Time
Which bacteria are primarily involved in dental caries?
The primary bacteria involved are:
* Streptococcus mutans
* Lactobacillus acidophilus
* Actinomyces viscosus
Fill in the blank: Dental caries is a _______ disease.
[multifactorial]
What is the process of caries formation?
The process of caries formation includes:
1. Bacteria metabolize sugar → Acid production
2. Acid lowers pH below critical levels
3. Loss of mineral content leads to cavity formation
At what pH does enamel demineralization begin?
Enamel demineralization begins at pH 5.5.
What is dental plaque?
Dental plaque is a soft gelatinous mass of bacteria that adheres to tooth surfaces, also referred to as plaque biofilm.
What are the three main stages of biofilm development?
The three main stages of biofilm development are:
1. Formation of Pellicle
2. Colonization of Bacteria
3. Maturation of Biofilm
What are the pathogenic properties of cariogenic bacteria?
The pathogenic properties are:
* Acidogenic – They convert sugars into acid.
* Aciduric – They survive in low pH environments.
What is the Acidogenic Theory?
The Acidogenic Theory (Miller, 1882) states that caries occur in two stages:
1. Demineralization of enamel by bacterial acids
2. Breakdown of organic matrix by bacterial enzymes
Where does caries commonly occur?
Caries commonly occur in:
* Pits and fissures
* Proximal enamel surfaces
* Cervical margins of the teeth
* Root surfaces
* Margins of restorations
* Tooth surfaces adjacent to dentures and bridges
True or False: The plaque pH drops within minutes of sugar intake.
True
What are the functions of saliva in caries prevention?
Saliva functions include:
* Buffers acids to prevent prolonged demineralization
* Contains calcium & phosphate for remineralization
* Washes away food debris & bacteria
What roles does fluoride play in caries prevention?
Fluoride functions include:
* Inhibits demineralization by strengthening enamel
* Enhances remineralization by incorporating fluoride into enamel crystals
* Reduces bacterial activity by inhibiting bacterial enzymes
What is the Caries Balance Concept?
The Caries Balance Concept states that caries formation depends on a balance between:
* Pathologic Factors (Caries Promoting)
* Protective Factors (Caries Preventing)
List some pathologic factors that promote caries.
Pathologic factors include:
* Bacteria (e.g., S. mutans, Lactobacillus)
* Frequent sugar intake
* Xerostomia (Dry mouth)
What are some protective factors that prevent caries?
Protective factors include:
* Saliva & its buffering capacity
* Fluoride & remineralization
* Antimicrobial agents (chlorhexidine, xylitol)
* Pit and fissure sealants
What are the key strategies for the prevention and management of dental caries?
Key strategies include:
* Mechanical Plaque Control
* Dietary Modifications
* Fluoride Therapy
* Saliva Stimulation
* Professional Treatment
Summarize the main points about dental caries.
Main points include:
1. Dental caries is an infectious disease caused by acid-producing bacteria in plaque.
2. Four factors are required: Bacteria, Sugar, Susceptible Tooth, and Time.
3. Caries develop in stages, starting with demineralization and leading to cavitation.
4. Biofilm plays a crucial role, and plaque hypotheses explain its effect.
5. Fluoride, saliva, and good oral hygiene help prevent and reverse early caries.
6. A balance between pathologic and protective factors determines caries risk.
