Caries Flashcards
1
Q
At what level pH does enamel begin to demineralise?
A
Below 5.5
2
Q
What is needed for caries to occur?
A
Substrate
Time
Microbiota
Tooth surface
3
Q
Why is S.mutants seen as the odontopathogen for caries?
A
Virulence factors
- can break down glucose
- produces EPS from sucrose metabolism
- has attachment mechanisms such as GTF
- produces an acid environment so it is competitive at low pH
4
Q
What is the stages of plaque formation?
A
Adhesion of pioneer bacteria
Survival and growth
Biofilm production
Formation of complex plaque
Acid production
Caries
5
Q
What is the mineral content of enamel?
A
Calcium
Phosphate
Hydroxyl ions
6
Q
What makes enamel more susceptible to caries
A
Ion substitution
Calclium, phosphate or hydroxyl ions substituted for ones like carbonate or chloride - making more susceptible
