Dental Disease

Question 1

Plaque

Answer 1

Biofilm from bacteria on tooth surface that synthesise a water insoluble glucan from sugar using G-Tases
1000 bacteria mainly step mutants
Removed by brushing, after 48 hours mineralised, 10 days it forms calculus
Prevent saliva reaching tooth surface stopping buffering and preventing decay
Bacteria initiate an immune response which can cause inflammation and further problems

Question 2

Gingivitis

Answer 2

Inflamed, sore, swollen, red, tender, painful, bleeding gums, bad breath
Prevented and treated by good oral hygiene
Neutrophils (WBC) start immune response causing inflammation and if prolonged there is tissue deterioration

Question 3

Periodontal disease

Answer 3

Caused by prolonged gingivitis
Host response leading to degradation of tooth supporting tissues reducing bone level causing a 3mm periodontal pocket
Bacteria cannot be reached in brushing so tooth loss

Question 4

Caries/Cavities

Answer 4

From transmissible bacteria
Can be drilled out and given filling or tooth loss
Bacteria ferment sugars producing acid as biproduct below pH 6.75-7.25 demineralisation occurs