2. Cariogenic Pathogens

Question 1

What pH must oral environment be less than to begin demineralisation ?

Answer 1

<5.5

Question 2

What is the ‘odontopathogen’ ?

Answer 2

Strep. mutans.

Question 3

What virulence factors does strep. mutans have to make it a successful odontopathogen ?

Answer 3

Glycolytic systems - fermentation of carbohydrates.
Sucrose metabolism.
Attachment mechanisms - antigens and adhesions.
Greater acidogenicitiy - survives better in low pH.

Question 4

Explain conversion of fermentable carbohydrates to acid.

Answer 4

ATP to ADP conversion causing release of hydrogen ions and makes resilient to high pH.