Introduction to cariology

Question 1

Acquired pellicle

Answer 1

It’s an acellular, homogenous organic film which forms an enamel and other hard surfaces by selective absorption of salivary proteins (e.g. amylase, lipase, mucin etc).

Question 2

Food debris

Answer 2

Consists of food remnants to the teeth and is usually present only transiently after meals.

Question 3

Dental plaque (biofilm)

Answer 3

It’s the soft nonmineralized, bacterial deposit which forms on teeth (and dental prostheses) that are not adequately cleaned.

Question 4

Dental calculus

Answer 4

This is plaque in which mineralization has involved both the plaque matrix and the microorganisms. However, the free surface of calculus usually harbours living bacteria.

Question 5

Role of saliva?

Answer 5

• supersaturated with minerals - remineralized tooth surface

- alkaline - buffers against acid

Question 6

Fluoride become incorporated into crystals as?

Answer 6

Fluorapatite - more resistant to acid attack

Question 7

Drinking water with 1 ppm of fluoride decreases caries rate by?

Answer 7

40-60%

Question 8

Positive effects of fluoride:

Answer 8

• Less extensive damage
• Fewer affected teeth per person
• Fewer affected surface per tooth
• Fewer lost teeth to decay

Question 9

Behaviour factors for caries

Answer 9

• Tooth brushing habits

- Exposure to sucrose and baked starches

Question 10

Prevention of dental caries

Answer 10

• Reduction in sugar exposure and thickness in biofilm

- sufficient exposure to fluoride and saliva