Cariology studies

Question 1

Recap on the windows of caries risk model

Answer 1

This model demonstrates that given a dietary challenge, an individual’s window of caries risk can vary depending on control of risk factors such as:
• Plaque removal
• Fluoride exposure
• Saliva amount

If all three of the above factors are lacking in the presence of a dietary challenge, then the windows of caries risk greatly increases

Question 2

Recap on the four key caries risk factors

Answer 2

• The four caries risk are fluoride, saliva, plaque and diet
• With effective oral care (fluoride and saliva management) three risks are modified and it reduces caries risk with just one behavior
• Diet and saliva can change the ecology of the biofilm into an inflammatory one

Question 3

Recap on the Nyvad and Takahashi model

Answer 3

• Dynamic stability stage: dominance of non- MS and actinomyces. More remineralization than demineralization
• Aciduric stage: Low pH non- ms and actinomyces. Remin = demin
• Acidogenic stage: Increase in MS and non- mutans, aciduric bacteria. Demin&raquo_space; remin

Question 4

Recap on the vipeholm study

Answer 4

• Sugar in solution at mealtime does not result in caries incidence
• Sugar in sticky form at mealtime slightly increases caries incidence
• Sugar in sticky form between meals greatly increases caries incidence
• Caries incidence decreases if sugar in sticky form is eliminated
• Even when sugar in any form is as much as is practically possible, a few subjects will still develop caries

Question 5

Recap on the Stephans curve

Answer 5

• This curve demonstrates the pH decrease after exposure to glucose
• Critical pH of 5.5 is when demineralization occurs faster than remineralization
• It will rise back to its original value after 20 minutes or so, unless exposure continues
• When pH falls, sustainably, the enamel decalcifies
• When pH rises to 6, the decalcified enamel remineralizes
• The maturity of plaque makes a difference in Stephan’s curve