Próchnica zębów
Patofizjologia i mechanizm

Próchnica zębów to przewlekła choroba infekcyjna twardych tkanek zęba, charakteryzująca się demineralizacją szkliwa i zębiny, prowadzącą do powstania ubytków. Etiologia próchnicy opiera się na interakcji podatnej powierzchni zęba, bakterii próchnicotwórczych (głównie Streptococcus mutans i Streptococcus sobrinus), fermentowalnych węglowodanów (np. sacharozy) oraz czasu ekspozycji. Proces demineralizacji zachodzi przy spadku pH biofilmu poniżej 5,5 dla szkliwa i 6,2 dla zębiny, co prowadzi do utraty jonów wapnia i fosforanów. Wczesne zmiany próchnicowe manifestują się jako białe plamy, a dalszy rozwój obejmuje cztery strefy demineralizacji i inwazję bakteryjną zębiny, co może skutkować zapaleniem miazgi. Kluczową rolę w patogenezie odgrywa enzym glukanosacharaza produkowany przez S. mutans, umożliwiający adhezję bakterii do szkliwa poprzez syntezę polisacharydów z sacharozy. Remineralizacja jest możliwa dzięki działaniu śliny i fluoru, który w stężeniach obecnych w ślinie (np. fluoroapatyt) zwiększa odporność szkliwa na demineralizację.

Patogeneza próchnic zębów

Próchnica zębów (łac. dental caries) to przewlekła choroba infekcyjna twardych tkanek zęba, charakteryzująca się demineralizacją części nieorganicznej i zniszczeniem substancji organicznej, co często prowadzi do powstania ubytku1. Jest to jeden z najbardziej rozpowszechnionych problemów zdrowia jamy ustnej na świecie, dotykający ludzi w każdym wieku2. Proces ten rozpoczyna się na powierzchni zęba i jest wynikiem złożonych interakcji między podatnym zębem, bakteriami próchnicotwórczymi, substratami (głównie węglowodanami) oraz czasem34.

Rola biofilmu w patogenezie próchnicy

Proces próchnicowy zachodzi w biofilmie (płytce nazębnej), który jest stale aktywny przy każdej fluktuacji pH, a jego efekty manifestują się w twardych tkankach zęba5. Biofilm jest złożonym ekosystemem mikroorganizmów, zapewniającym aktywność życiową i zachowanie zasiedlających go szczepów oraz ciągły wzrost całej populacji6. Obecnie przyjętą koncepcją jest hipoteza płytki ekologicznej, według której próchnica nie jest spowodowana przez określony typ mikroorganizmów działających samodzielnie, ale jest wynikiem przesunięcia mikroflory biofilmu w kierunku gatunków bardziej próchnicotwórczych7.

Biofilm tworzy się na zębach w wyniku formowania się osadu nabytego (pellicle). Bakterie kolonizują zęby, przylegając do powierzchni pokrytej osadem. Z czasem tworzy się dojrzały biofilm, tworząc próchnicotwórcze środowisko na powierzchni zęba8. Sama płytka nazębna nie jest patogenna, ale obecność w niej patogennych gatunków bakterii prowadzi do powstania próchnicy9.

Rola bakterii w procesie próchnicowym

Bakterie jamy ustnej odgrywają kluczową rolę w patogenezie próchnicy. Głównym czynnikiem etiologicznym próchnicy zębów są kwasotwórcze, kwasooporne bakterie, a wśród nich przede wszystkim Streptococcus mutans i Streptococcus sobrinus1011. Jama ustna człowieka ma niewielki potencjał próchnicotwórczy dopóki nie zostanie zainfekowana przez patogenne organizmy12. Bakterie próchnicotwórcze są przenoszone od matki, rodzeństwa, rówieśników lub opiekunów do jamy ustnej niemowlęcia w momencie lub przed wyrznięciem się pierwszego zęba13.

Niedawne badania pokazują, że pojawienie się próchnicy jest bezpośrednio zależne od obecności immunoglobuliny wydzielniczej IgA w ślinie. Ilość IgA mniejsza niż 14,2 mg/100 ml w ślinie umożliwia szybki rozwój Streptococcus mutans, jednego z najbardziej niebezpiecznych czynników powodujących pojawienie się próchnicy14.

Rozwój próchnicy jest zależny od następujących czynników:

  • Podatna powierzchnia zęba (szkliwo lub zębina)
  • Bakterie próchnicotwórcze
  • Fermentowalne węglowodany (np. sacharoza)
  • Czas

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Mechanizm demineralizacji zębów

Próchnica powstaje, gdy bakterie biofilmu metabolizują węglowodany z pożywienia i wytwarzają kwasy organiczne, głównie kwas mlekowy16. Te produkty końcowe metabolizmu bakteryjnego gromadzą się w fazie płynnej biofilmu, powodując spadek pH i demineralizację powierzchniowej warstwy zęba17. Proces ten występuje, gdy pH spada poniżej wartości krytycznej wynoszącej około 5,5 dla szkliwa i 6,2 dla zębiny1819.

Kwas powoduje demineralizację szkliwa – proces, w którym minerały, takie jak wapń i fosforany, są usuwane z tkanek zęba20. Przy częstym spożywaniu pokarmów zawierających cukry, bakterie produkują więcej kwasu, co prowadzi do częstszych ataków kwasowych na zęby21. To powoduje zwiększenie porowatości szkliwa, poszerzenie przestrzeni między kryształami i zmiękczenie powierzchni, co umożliwia kwasom głębsze wnikanie w strukturę zęba i demineralizację warstwy podpowierzchniowej22.

Jeśli warunki kwasowe utrzymują się, spadki pH będą kontynuowane, osiągając punkt, w którym tempo utraty minerałów w warstwie podpowierzchniowej jest większe niż na powierzchni, co skutkuje powstaniem zmiany podpowierzchniowej23. Z czasem, powtarzające się ataki kwasowe prowadzą do powstania ubytku w zębie24.

Mechanizm molekularny procesu próchnicowego

Na poziomie molekularnym proces próchnicowy jest złożony i obejmuje szereg interakcji. Bakterie Streptococcus mutans wykazują kilka czynników wirulencji, które umożliwiają im adhezję i akumulację w biofilmie nazębnym25. Jedną z głównych cech wirulencji S. mutans jest zdolność do produkcji enzymów Gtfs, które syntetyzują wewnątrzkomórkowe polisacharydy (ICP) i pozakomórkowe polisacharydy (ECP) z sacharozy zawartej w diecie26.

Naukowcy z Uniwersytetu w Groningen rozszyrowali strukturę i mechanizm funkcjonalny enzymu glukanosacharazy, odpowiedzialnego za przyczepianie się płytki nazębnej do zębów. Bakterie wykorzystują enzym glukanosacharazy do przekształcania cukru z pożywienia w długie, lepkie łańcuchy cukrowe, których używają jako kleju do przyczepiania się do szkliwa. Główna przyczyna próchnicy zębów, bakteria Streptococcus mutans, również wykorzystuje ten enzym. Po przyczepieniu się do szkliwa bakterie te fermentują cukry, uwalniając kwasy, które rozpuszczają wapń w zębach. W ten sposób rozwija się próchnica27.

Odkrycie struktury 3D enzymu dostarczyło naukowcom szczegółowego wglądu w mechanizm funkcjonalny enzymu. Enzym rozszczepia sacharozę na fruktozę i glukozę, a następnie dodaje cząsteczkę glukozy do rosnącego łańcucha cukrowego28. Ta informacja jest kluczowa dla opracowania inhibitorów, które mogłyby zapobiegać przyczepianiu się bakterii do szkliwa29.

Proces rozwijania się próchnicy

Próchnica zębów rozwija się w kilku etapach. Pierwszym klinicznym objawem choroby jest biała plama, która jest wyrazem demineralizacji podpowierzchniowej szkliwa – powierzchniowe szkliwo jest bardziej zmineralizowane30. W tym wczesnym stadium demineralizacji można zaobserwować białą plamę w miejscu, w którym doszło do utraty minerałów. Jest to wczesny objaw próchnicy zębów31.

Histologicznie w zmianie próchnicowej można wyróżnić cztery różne strefy, z których trzy są widoczne klinicznie32:

  • Strefa przezroczysta – znajduje się na czole zmiany próchnicowej, jest bardziej porowata w świetle spolaryzowanym, zawiera 1% porów w porównaniu ze zdrowym szkliwem, które ma stężenie porów 0,1%.
  • Strefa ciemna – znajduje się obok i powierzchownie w stosunku do strefy przezroczystej, powstaje w wyniku demineralizacji twardych tkanek i zawiera 2,4% porów na jednostkę powierzchni.
  • Strefa demineralizacji – stanowi większość zmiany, reprezentuje obszar największej demineralizacji, objętość porów wynosi od 5% na obwodzie do 25% w centralnym obszarze.
  • Strefa powierzchniowa – ma około 30 mikronów grubości i wydaje się stosunkowo normalna, zawiera dużą ilość nierozpuszczalnej macierzy organicznej i wysokie stężenie fluoru.

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W miarę postępu procesu próchnicowego, zębina również doświadcza utraty minerałów i inwazji bakteryjnej, wytwarzając zębinę trzeciorzędową w celu ochrony miazgi34. Próchnica zębiny zaczyna się od jej bocznego rozprzestrzeniania się wzdłuż połączenia szkliwno-zębinowego i szybkim zaangażowaniem dużej liczby kanalików zębinowych35.

Jeśli proces próchnicowy nie zostanie zatrzymany, może osiągnąć miazgę, która zawiera naczynia krwionośne, nerwy i tkankę łączną. Gdy próchnica dociera do miazgi, osoby mogą doświadczać silnego bólu zęba, ropni lub infekcji36.

Rola remineralizacji w procesie próchnicowym

Próchnica jest wynikiem zaburzenia równowagi między demineralizacją a remineralizacją szkliwa. Między atakami próchnicowymi pH płytki nazębnej wraca do poziomów spoczynkowych, które są w przybliżeniu neutralne, co stwarza możliwość, że jony mineralne w płytce mogą przyczynić się do ponownego odkładania minerałów w obrębie zmiany próchnicowej – proces znany jako remineralizacja37.

Ślina odgrywa kluczową rolę w zapobieganiu próchnicy i naprawie zębów. Działa jak naturalna obrona poprzez rozcieńczanie kwasów, neutralizację szkodliwych bakterii i dostarczanie niezbędnych minerałów, takich jak wapń i fosforany, do remineralizacji szkliwa38. Zmniejszony przepływ śliny (suchość w ustach) może zwiększyć ryzyko próchnicy zębów39.

Wczesna próchnica jest odwracalna. Ślina może odkładać minerały z powrotem na powierzchni zęba, a poprawa diety i higieny jamy ustnej ma duże znaczenie40. Fluor odgrywa znaczącą rolę w tym procesie. Gdy fluorek jest obecny w płynach jamy ustnej (tj. ślinie), podczas procesu remineralizacji zamiast hydroksyapatytu tworzy się fluoroapatyt41. Jony fluorkowe (F-) zastępują grupy hydroksylowe (OH) w tworzeniu krystalicznej siatki apatytu42. Fluoroapatyt jest z natury mniej rozpuszczalny niż hydroksyapatyt, nawet w warunkach kwasowych, co czyni go bardziej odpornym na demineralizację podczas ataku kwasowego43.

Czynniki wpływające na rozwój próchnicy

Czynniki dietetyczne

Dieta odgrywa kluczową rolę w patogenezie próchnicy. Głównym czynnikiem ryzyka są węglowodany, zwłaszcza sacharoza, która jest uważana za najbardziej próchnicotwórczy cukier44. Oto, w jaki sposób dieta wpływa na rozwój próchnicy:

  • Częste spożywanie pokarmów zawierających cukry zwiększa okresy, w których pH płytki spada poniżej krytycznego poziomu 5,5, co prowadzi do demineralizacji45.
  • Częstotliwość spożywania cukrów i rafinowanych węglowodanów może być główną zmienną dietetyczną w etiologii próchnicy, wpływającą na kolonizację przez bakterie próchnicotwórcze i rozwój próchnicy46.
  • Bakterie Streptococcus mutans przekształcają cukier z pożywienia w kwasy, które mogą zmiękczać szkliwo zębów47.
  • Gdy jama ustna jest często obciążona cukrem, populacja Streptococcus mutans i Lactobacillus gwałtownie wzrasta, a ich produkt odpadowy, kwas mlekowy, osiąga stężenie wystarczająco wysokie, aby rozpuścić szkliwo zębów48.

Nawet przy odpowiedniej ekspozycji na fluor, spożycie cukru pozostaje umiarkowanym czynnikiem ryzyka próchnicy zębów49. Światowa Organizacja Zdrowia (WHO) zaleca ograniczenie spożycia cukrów do 5% dziennego zapotrzebowania energetycznego, co odpowiada 30g cukru dziennie dla dorosłych50.

Struktura zębów i jej wpływ na próchnicę

Struktura i morfologia zębów mają znaczący wpływ na podatność na próchnicę:

  • W porównaniu do gładkich powierzchni zębów, głębokie bruzdy i szczeliny są bardziej podatne na atak próchnicowy ze względu na zatrzymywanie pokarmu i zastój bakterii51.
  • Skład chemiczny szkliwa, taki jak obecność dwuwodnego fosforanu wapnia i fluoroapatytu, sprawia, że szkliwo jest w pewnym stopniu odporne na atak próchnicowy52.
  • W populacjach rozwiniętych ekonomicznie, pierwotne zmiany próchnicowe rozpoczynają się u dzieci na powierzchni szkliwa: najczęściej w bruzdach i szczelinach okluzyjnych, rzadziej na powierzchniach stycznych, a najrzadziej na powierzchniach gładkich53.

Błędy strukturalne zębów również mogą przyczyniać się do rozwoju próchnicy. Linie szkliwa, osłonki pryzmatów, kępki i ściany kanalików, które składają się z materiału organicznego, tworzą drogi dla postępujących mikroorganizmów54.

Rola fluoru w zapobieganiu próchnicy

Przeciwpróchnicowy efekt fluoru jest dobrze udokumentowany. Fluor i częstotliwość spożywania fermentowanych węglowodanów to dwie najważniejsze kwestie w walce z próchnicą zębów55. Oto, w jaki sposób fluor pomaga zapobiegać próchnicy:

  • Częsta ekspozycja na małe ilości fluoru każdego dnia to najlepszy sposób na zmniejszenie ryzyka rozwoju próchnicy56.
  • Fluor łączy się ze strukturą zęba, czyniąc szkliwo bardziej odpornym na atak kwasowy57.
  • Próchnica jest w znacznym stopniu zależna od ekspozycji na fluor, który zmniejsza demineralizację i zwiększa remineralizację58.
  • Mechanizm działania fluoru polega na tworzeniu fluoroapatytu, który jest mniej rozpuszczalny niż hydroksyapatyt, więc ogólna szybkość rozpuszczania jest wolniejsza59.

Stosowanie fluoru miejscowo w jamie ustnej ma dwie zalety: zastosowanie w miejscu działania oraz zmniejszenie ekspozycji ogólnoustrojowej60. Topicalne zastosowanie fluoru jest najbardziej skuteczne w zapobieganiu próchnicy zębów61.

Udział metaloproteaz macierzy w patogenezie próchnicy

Metaloproteazy macierzy (MMP) to enzymy, które odgrywają znaczącą rolę w rozkładzie składników macierzy pozakomórkowej. W kontekście próchnicy zębów MMP, takie jak MMP-8, MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-3, MMP-14 i MMP-20, znajdują się w miazdze, odontoblastach i zębinie. Enzymy te przyczyniają się do degradacji kolagenu zębinowego, co jest kluczowym etapem w progresji próchnicy od kompleksu miazga-zębina do powierzchni szkliwa62.

Teoria systemowa sugeruje, że aktywność tych MMP jest wpływana przez warunki systemowe, takie jak stres oksydacyjny i niedobory żywieniowe, które mogą nasilać proces próchnicowy63. Stres oksydacyjny wynika z nierównowagi między reaktywnymi formami tlenu (ROS) a obroną antyoksydacyjną organizmu. Ta nierównowaga prowadzi do uszkodzenia komórek i stanu zapalnego, przyczyniając się do różnych chorób, w tym próchnicy zębów. Wysoki poziom stresu oksydacyjnego w jamie ustnej może zakłócać przepływ płynu zębinowego, prowadząc do zwiększonej podatności na kwasy bakteryjne64.

Nowe podejścia w rozumieniu i leczeniu próchnicy

Znaczenie mikrobioty jamy ustnej

Najnowsze badania pokazują, że próchnica jest wynikiem zaburzenia równowagi w mikrobiocie jamy ustnej, wynikającej ze złożonej interakcji między gospodarzem, dietą i mikroorganizmami65. Mikrobiota jamy ustnej jest kształtowana zarówno przez czynniki środowiskowe, jak i genetyczne66.

Chociaż Streptococcus mutans i Streptococcus sobrinus są uważane za główne czynniki próchnicotwórcze, badania wskazują, że próchnica zębów jest wynikiem synergistycznego działania kilku gatunków67. W niedawnym badaniu naukowcy z University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine i Adams School of Dentistry na University of North Carolina odkryli, że gatunek bakterii zwany Selenomonas sputigena, wcześniej kojarzony tylko z chorobą dziąseł, może działać jako kluczowy partner S. mutans, znacznie zwiększając jego zdolność do wywoływania próchnicy68.

Odkryto, że S. sputigena, która posiada małe wyrostki umożliwiające jej poruszanie się po powierzchniach, może zostać uwięziona przez glukany produkowane przez S. mutans. Wynikiem tego nieoczekiwanego partnerstwa jest znacznie zwiększona i skoncentrowana produkcja kwasu, co znacznie pogarsza nasilenie próchnicy69.

Probiotyki w zapobieganiu próchnicy

Probiotyki to grupa aktywnych mikroorganizmów, które są korzystne dla ich gospodarzy. Badania wykazały, że mają one znaczący potencjał w zapobieganiu i leczeniu próchnicy zębów70. Probiotyki zostały po raz pierwszy wprowadzone przez Meurmana i współpracowników, którzy odkryli, że Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG ATCC 53103 może kolonizować ludzką jamę ustną71.

Mechanizm, poprzez który probiotyki mogą zapobiegać próchnicy zębów, jest podobny do tego, który występuje w przewodzie pokarmowym72. Główne mechanizmy hamujące obejmują:

  • Syntezę aktywnych metabolitów
  • Hamowanie biofilmu mikroorganizmów próchnicotwórczych
  • Konkurencyjną adhezję i kolonizację
  • Koagregację z patogenami
  • Regulację układu odpornościowego

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Probiotyki aktywują lub modulują układ odpornościowy gospodarza, zwiększając w ten sposób odpowiedź immunologiczną na mikroorganizmy próchnicotwórcze74. Połączone stosowanie probiotyków i prebiotyków (synbiotyki) wykazało lepsze efekty terapeutyczne w porównaniu do ich pojedynczego stosowania75.

Nowe technologie w leczeniu próchnicy

Naukowcy opracowują nowe środki zapobiegania próchnicy zębów. Jedno z badań wykazało, że żucie gumy zawierającej słodzik ksylitol tymczasowo hamuje wzrost bakterii powodujących próchnicę zębów76. Ponadto badane są materiały, które powoli uwalniają fluor, co pomoże zapobiec dalszej próchnicy. Materiały te byłyby umieszczane między zębami lub w zagłębieniach i szczelinach zębów77.

Curodont to nowa technologia wykorzystująca peptydy P11-4 do regeneracji szkliwa. Technologia ta dyfunduje w głąb zmiany próchnicowej w ciągu 5 minut. Peptydy samoorganizują się w obrębie zmiany próchnicowej, tworząc biomatrię, która przyciąga jony wapnia i fosforanu ze śliny. Nowe kryształy hydroksyapatytu tworzą się wokół biomatrycy, prowadząc do regeneracji szkliwa78. Proces próchnicowy zostaje zatrzymany, a zmiana ulega regresji poprzez regenerację hydroksyapatytu, która postępuje z czasem79.

Inna obiecująca technologia to fluork diaminowy srebra (SDF), topiczny środek powszechnie stosowany w stomatologii do zatrzymania i zapobiegania próchnicy zębów. Mechanizm działania SDF jest wieloaspektowy, obejmujący różne interakcje biologiczne i chemiczne80:

  • Jony srebra mają silne właściwości przeciwdrobnoustrojowe, zakłócające ściany komórkowe bakterii, szlaki metaboliczne i replikację DNA
  • Po kontakcie z tkankami zębów SDF tworzy fluorek wapnia i fosforan srebra, które stanowią rezerwuar fluoru
  • Jony fluorkowe integrują się z siatką krystaliczną szkliwa, tworząc fluoroapatyt
  • Jony srebra reagują z białkami w zniszczonej zębinie, tworząc warstwę ochronną koniugatów srebro-białko

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Celowane podejścia antybakteryjne

W 2011 roku dr Wenyuan Shi z UCLA opracował płyn do płukania jamy ustnej, który mógł eliminować bakterie będące główną przyczyną próchnicy zębów. Nowe badanie prowadzone przez Shi wyjaśnia bardziej precyzyjnie mechanizm, który sprawia, że aktywny składnik płynu do płukania jamy ustnej jest tak skuteczny84.

Badanie wyjaśnia, jak specyficznie ukierunkowany peptyd przeciwdrobnoustrojowy, znany jako C16G2, działa w celu wyeliminowania tylko szkodliwych, wytwarzających kwas bakterii Streptococcus mutans, głównej przyczyny próchnicy zębów, nie zakłócając łagodnych i korzystnych bakterii w jamie ustnej85. To podejście STAMP (specyficznie ukierunkowany peptyd przeciwdrobnoustrojowy) byłoby unikalnym rozwiązaniem do przeprogramowania mikrobiom jamy ustnej dla długoterminowego zdrowia86.

Ten ukierunkowany podejście do manipulowania mikrobiomem jamy ustnej może mieć wpływ daleko wykraczający poza stomatologię, potencjalnie umożliwiając leczenie i zapobieganie innym chorobom związanym z mikrobiomem87.

Znaczenie wczesnej interwencji w próchnicy

Wczesna diagnoza próchnicy jest kluczowa dla skutecznego leczenia. Identyfikacja początkowych objawów, takich jak wrażliwość zęba lub niewielkie przebarwienia, może zapobiec pogorszeniu się stanu88. Zarządzanie próchnicą zębów powinno mieć na celu wykrywanie początkowych zmian, określanie aktywności próchnicy, przeprowadzanie oceny ryzyka próchnicy, zapobieganie nowym zmianom próchnicowym, zachowanie tkanki zębowej i utrzymanie zębów tak długo, jak to możliwe89.

Istniejąca próchnica powinna być początkowo leczona za pomocą procedur nieinwazyjnych (np. remineralizacja, usuwanie biofilmu, uszczelnianie) zamiast usuwania tkanki zębowej90. Jeśli stosuje się środki kontroli płytki nazębnej, zmiana może ulec regresji bez konieczności interwencji inwazyjnej91.

Wczesna próchnica ograniczona do szkliwa może być leczona poprzez remineralizację poprzez poprawę domowej opieki (szczotkowanie i nitkowanie), czyszczenia, przepisywanie past do zębów z wysoką zawartością fluoru i wielokrotne aplikacje fluoru w gabinecie dentystycznym92. Leczenie próchnicy, która weszła do zębiny, obejmuje wywiercenie zniszczonego obszaru i odbudowę ubytku amalgamatem, żywicą kompozytową lub szkło-jonomerem93.

CAMBRA (Caries Management by Risk Assessment) to filozofia stomatologii zapobiegawczej, która dokładnie ocenia ryzyko próchnicy i zwalcza je za pomocą zabiegów i terapii skalibrowanych do poziomu ryzyka94. U osób z ekstremalnym ryzykiem można praktycznie zagwarantować, że będą mieć nową próchnicę w bardzo bliskiej przyszłości, czasami w ciągu sześciu miesięcy95.

Kompleksowe zarządzanie próchnicą wymaga zrozumienia, że jest to dynamiczny proces, na który wpływa wiele czynników, w tym tworzenie biofilmu, dieta i ślina96. Podejście do leczenia powinno brać pod uwagę wszystkie te czynniki, aby skutecznie zapobiegać i leczyć próchnicę.

Kolejne rozdziały

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Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.

  1. 09.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Pathogenesis of dental caries | PPT
    https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/pathogenesis-of-dental-caries/13727902
    Pathogenesis of dental caries is an irreversible microbial disease of the calcified tissues of the teeth, characterized by de-mineralisation of inorganic portion and destruction of organic substance of the tooth, which often leads to cavitation. […] Caries initiation is due to demineralisation of inorganic component and destruction of organic component. […] Dental caries is caused by the interaction of sugars, teeth, and microorganisms. […] Role of microorganisms: Oral organisms can demineralise tooth enamel in vitro and produce lesions similar to the naturally occurring dental caries. […] S. mutans: development of early carious lesions in enamel. […] Dental caries is caused by acid produced by microorganisms from the fermentation of dietary carbohydrates. […] ACID CAUSE DISSOLUTION OF THE HYDROXYAPATITE CRYSTALS OF THE ENAMEL FOLLOWED BY DENTINE (Demineralisation).
  • #2 Etiopathogenesis of Dental Caries | IntechOpen
    https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/89063
    Tooth decay, commonly known as dental caries, is a widespread chronic disease affecting people of all ages and demographics. Often seen as just a minor discomfort, it significantly impacts not only dental health but also overall well-being and quality of life. Dental caries arises from a complex mix of genetic, environmental, behavioral, and iatrogenic factors, illustrating its multifaceted origins. […] The development and progression of dental caries are influenced by various factors, which this chapter categorizes into general, local, and iatrogenic. General factors include heredity, gender, age, immunological factors, hormones, vitamins, and diet, each playing a unique role in an individual’s vulnerability to tooth decay. […] Local factors, such as dental morphology, oral hygiene, and saliva, are also crucial in caries development, highlighting the significance of physical characteristics and personal habits. The structure and alignment of teeth and the composition and flow of saliva greatly affect the likelihood of developing caries.
  • #3 A Comprehensive Guide to What Causes Cavities – Comeaux & Stonestreet Dental Group News – Comeaux Dental Group Woodlands Benders Landing
    https://comeauxdds.com/about/news/a-comprehensive-guide-to-what-causes-cavities
    Dental caries, or Latin „rot”, also known as tooth decay, or a „cavity”, is a bacterial infection that results in the destruction and demineralization of the hard tissues (enamels, dentins, and cementum) of the teeth. […] Acid is produced by bacteria from food debris that has accumulated on the tooth’s surface. […] Caries can occur when there are four things that are required: the tooth surface (dentin or enamel), caries-causing bacteria, fermentable carbohydrate (such as sucrose) and time. […] Streptococcus mutagens, Streptococcus sobrinus and lactobacilli are the bacteria that cause dental cavities. […] When the pH of their environment drops below 5.5, teeth are vulnerable to damage. This is called the critical pH. It indicates an acidic environment. […] Certain foods and beverages have a pH below 5.5, which can lead to demineralization without bacteria. This is called erosion and not caries, as the acid is not bacterial.
  • #4 15: Dental Caries | Pocket Dentistry
    https://pocketdentistry.com/15-dental-caries/
    According to this theory few odontoblasts, within the pulp of few certain teeth are damaged by the autoimmune mechanisms, leading to a compromised defense mechanism and the loss of integrity of enamel or dentin. […] This theory is based on the fact that plaque bacteria produces enzymes. […] It is believed that the acids produced have a major role in enamel dissolution and the enzymes probably play a greater role in dentinal dissolution. […] Levine proposed that the demineralization and remineralization of enamel is a continuous process. […] The four factors contributing to the caries process are (Figure 1): Host factor, Microflora, Substrate or diet (physical nature and chemical nature), Time. […] Compared to the smooth surfaces of teeth, deep pits and fissures are more prone to carious attack because of food lodgment and bacterial stagnation.
  • #5 Dental Caries – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551699/
    Dental caries is a prevalent chronic infectious disease resulting from tooth-adherent cariogenic bacteria that metabolize sugars to produce acid, which, over time, demineralizes tooth structure. […] The caries process occurs in the biofilm, which is permanently active with every pH fluctuation and the lesion manifests in the dental hard tissues. […] Dental caries occurs when the biofilm microbiota that normally resides in the oral cavity in homeostasis change to an acidogenic, aciduric, and cariogenic population due to the frequent consumption of sugars. […] The currently accepted concept is the ecological plaque hypothesis. […] The ecological plaque hypothesis believes that dental caries is not caused by a specific type of microorganism acting alone but is the result of a shift in the microbiota of the dental biofilm towards more cariogenic species.
  • #6 Modern concept of caries pathogenesis
    https://ohi-s.com/articles-videos/modern-concept-of-caries-pathogenesis/
    The leading role in the pathogenesis of the carious process belongs to sucrose, which can cause an immediate, within a minute, decrease in pH from 6 to 4. […] In the modern concept of the etiology and pathogenesis of caries, bacterial plaque is usually called biofilm, which is a unique ecosystem of microorganisms that ensures the vital activity and preservation of the strains inhabiting it and the continuous growth of the overall population. […] For the pathological carious process, the constant presence of plaque contaminated with microbes on the surface of the tooth is very important. […] Two-day dental plaque, along with other factors in the pathogenesis of caries, is considered potentially cariogenic. The initial demineralization of the enamel is already accompanied by some changes within the dentin, which is located directly under the white spot.
  • #7 Dental Caries – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551699/
    Dental caries is a prevalent chronic infectious disease resulting from tooth-adherent cariogenic bacteria that metabolize sugars to produce acid, which, over time, demineralizes tooth structure. […] The caries process occurs in the biofilm, which is permanently active with every pH fluctuation and the lesion manifests in the dental hard tissues. […] Dental caries occurs when the biofilm microbiota that normally resides in the oral cavity in homeostasis change to an acidogenic, aciduric, and cariogenic population due to the frequent consumption of sugars. […] The currently accepted concept is the ecological plaque hypothesis. […] The ecological plaque hypothesis believes that dental caries is not caused by a specific type of microorganism acting alone but is the result of a shift in the microbiota of the dental biofilm towards more cariogenic species.
  • #8 Tooth decay – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tooth_decay
    Tooth decay, also known as caries, is the breakdown of teeth due to acids produced by bacteria. The cause of cavities is acid from bacteria dissolving the hard tissues of the teeth (enamel, dentin and cementum). The acid is produced by the bacteria when they break down food debris or sugar on the tooth surface. If mineral breakdown is greater than buildup from sources such as saliva, caries results. Tooth decay is caused by biofilm (dental plaque) lying on the teeth and maturing to become cariogenic (causing decay). Certain bacteria in the biofilm produce acids, primarily lactic acid, in the presence of fermentable carbohydrates such as sucrose, fructose, and glucose. The most common bacteria associated with dental cavities are the mutans streptococci, most prominently Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus, and lactobacilli. These organisms can produce high levels of lactic acid following fermentation of dietary sugars and are resistant to the adverse effects of low pH, properties essential for cariogenic bacteria. The development of biofilm begins with pellicle formation. Bacteria colonize on the teeth by adhering to the pellicle-coated surface. Over time, a mature biofilm is formed, creating a cariogenic environment on the tooth surface. Dental caries result when the demineralization rate is faster than the remineralization, producing net mineral loss, which occurs when there is an ecologic shift within the dental biofilm from a balanced population of microorganisms to a population that produces acids and can survive in an acid environment.
  • #9 Pathogenesis of dental caries | PPT
    https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/pathogenesis-of-dental-caries/13727902
    Role of acid: mere presence of acid is of less significance; acidic saliva causes tooth decay. […] The plaque per se is not pathogenic, but the presence of pathogenic species within the plaque causes dental caries. […] Initiation of caries occurs at pH 5.2 – 5.5; At 5.5 pH, saliva ceases to be saturated with calcium and phosphate leading to the dissolution of inorganic components of tooth. […] The caries process is dynamic and influenced by many factors, including biofilm formation, diet, and saliva. […] Current concept of caries etiology implies interplay of host, microbial floras, substrate and time as the principle factors.
  • #10 Section 6: Pathophysiology of Caries Process and Influences on Caries Development
    https://www.txhealthsteps.com/static/warehouse/1076-2011-May-4-06vdu11301voz18o4925/section_6.html
    Caries develops when there is a susceptible tooth exposed to pathogenic flora (bacteria) in the presence of substrate (the surface on which an organism grows). Under these conditions, the bacteria metabolize substrate to form acid, which decalcifies teeth. […] As shown in Figure 1, caries can occur if oral flora contains acid-producing bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans. […] The human oral cavity has little cariogenic potential until it is infected by pathogenic organisms. Streptococcus mutans is currently considered the principal caries-causing bacteria, but Streptococcus sobrinus may also be involved. […] Cariogenic bacteria are transmitted from the mother, sibling, playmate, or primary caregiver, all of whom harbor these bacteria, to the infant at or before the eruption of the first tooth.
  • #11 Section 6: Pathophysiology of Caries Process and Influences on Caries Development
    https://www.txhealthsteps.com/static/warehouse/1076-2010-May-3-368d6u199b5u94p7y47o/section_6.html
    Caries develops when there is a susceptible tooth exposed to pathogenic flora (bacteria) in the presence of substrate (the surface on which an organism grows). Under these conditions, the bacteria metabolize substrate to form acid that decalcifies teeth. […] As shown in Figure 1, caries can occur if oral flora contains acid-producing bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans. […] The human oral cavity has little cariogenic potential until it is infected by pathogenic organisms. Streptococcus mutans is currently considered the principal caries-causing bacteria, but Streptococcus sobrinus may also be involved. […] The anti-cariogenic effect of fluoride is well documented. […] Frequent exposure to small amounts of fluoride each day is the best way to reduce the risk for developing tooth decay. Fluoride combines into the tooth structure to make enamel more resistant to acid attack.
  • #12 Section 6: Pathophysiology of Caries Process and Influences on Caries Development
    https://www.txhealthsteps.com/static/warehouse/1076-2011-May-4-06vdu11301voz18o4925/section_6.html
    Caries develops when there is a susceptible tooth exposed to pathogenic flora (bacteria) in the presence of substrate (the surface on which an organism grows). Under these conditions, the bacteria metabolize substrate to form acid, which decalcifies teeth. […] As shown in Figure 1, caries can occur if oral flora contains acid-producing bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans. […] The human oral cavity has little cariogenic potential until it is infected by pathogenic organisms. Streptococcus mutans is currently considered the principal caries-causing bacteria, but Streptococcus sobrinus may also be involved. […] Cariogenic bacteria are transmitted from the mother, sibling, playmate, or primary caregiver, all of whom harbor these bacteria, to the infant at or before the eruption of the first tooth.
  • #13 Section 6: Pathophysiology of Caries Process and Influences on Caries Development
    https://www.txhealthsteps.com/static/warehouse/1076-2011-May-4-06vdu11301voz18o4925/section_6.html
    Caries develops when there is a susceptible tooth exposed to pathogenic flora (bacteria) in the presence of substrate (the surface on which an organism grows). Under these conditions, the bacteria metabolize substrate to form acid, which decalcifies teeth. […] As shown in Figure 1, caries can occur if oral flora contains acid-producing bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans. […] The human oral cavity has little cariogenic potential until it is infected by pathogenic organisms. Streptococcus mutans is currently considered the principal caries-causing bacteria, but Streptococcus sobrinus may also be involved. […] Cariogenic bacteria are transmitted from the mother, sibling, playmate, or primary caregiver, all of whom harbor these bacteria, to the infant at or before the eruption of the first tooth.
  • #14 Etiopathogenesis of Dental Caries | IntechOpen
    https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/89063
    Recent research shows that the appearance of caries is directly dependent on the presence of secretory immunoglobulin IgA in saliva. The amount of IgA less than 14.2 mg/100 ml in saliva enables the rapid development of Streptococcus mutans, one of the most dangerous causes for the appearance of caries. […] Dental caries is a dynamic process characterized by the interaction of susceptible tooth surfaces; cariogenic bacteria, primarily Streptococcus mutans; and a fermentable carbohydrate source. Among dietary sugars, sucrose is the most common and is considered the most cariogenic carbohydrate. The risk of developing dental caries is heightened with frequent consumption of carbohydrates, especially in the form of simple sugars. […] Dental caries occurs when the demineralization of the enamel surpasses its demineralization capacity. Bacteria present in dental plaque metabolize fermentable carbohydrates, especially sucrose, from the diet. This metabolic activity produces organic acids, leading to a decrease in pH. It is hypothesized that when the pH falls below 5.5, demineralization of the enamel occurs—a threshold known as the critical pH. This demineralization process occurs each time fermentable carbohydrates are consumed.
  • #15 A Comprehensive Guide to What Causes Cavities – Comeaux & Stonestreet Dental Group News – Comeaux Dental Group Woodlands Benders Landing
    https://comeauxdds.com/about/news/a-comprehensive-guide-to-what-causes-cavities
    Dental caries, or Latin „rot”, also known as tooth decay, or a „cavity”, is a bacterial infection that results in the destruction and demineralization of the hard tissues (enamels, dentins, and cementum) of the teeth. […] Acid is produced by bacteria from food debris that has accumulated on the tooth’s surface. […] Caries can occur when there are four things that are required: the tooth surface (dentin or enamel), caries-causing bacteria, fermentable carbohydrate (such as sucrose) and time. […] Streptococcus mutagens, Streptococcus sobrinus and lactobacilli are the bacteria that cause dental cavities. […] When the pH of their environment drops below 5.5, teeth are vulnerable to damage. This is called the critical pH. It indicates an acidic environment. […] Certain foods and beverages have a pH below 5.5, which can lead to demineralization without bacteria. This is called erosion and not caries, as the acid is not bacterial.
  • #16 Dental Caries – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551699/
    Fermentable carbohydrates are metabolized by the biofilm bacteria that produce organic acids, primarily lactic acid. […] These end products of bacterial metabolism accumulate in the fluid phase of the biofilm, causing a pH drop and demineralization of the surface layer of the tooth. […] The enamel porosity increases, the spaces between the crystals widen, and the surface softens, which provides an opportunity for the acids to get deeper into the tooth structure and demineralize the subsurface. […] If the acidic conditions perpetuate, the pH drops will continue, reaching a point when the rate of mineral loss in the subsurface is higher than the surface, resulting in a subsurface lesion. […] A carious tissue consists of four different zones histologically, among which three zones are visible clinically.
  • #17 Dental Caries – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551699/
    Fermentable carbohydrates are metabolized by the biofilm bacteria that produce organic acids, primarily lactic acid. […] These end products of bacterial metabolism accumulate in the fluid phase of the biofilm, causing a pH drop and demineralization of the surface layer of the tooth. […] The enamel porosity increases, the spaces between the crystals widen, and the surface softens, which provides an opportunity for the acids to get deeper into the tooth structure and demineralize the subsurface. […] If the acidic conditions perpetuate, the pH drops will continue, reaching a point when the rate of mineral loss in the subsurface is higher than the surface, resulting in a subsurface lesion. […] A carious tissue consists of four different zones histologically, among which three zones are visible clinically.
  • #18 The Caries Process & Fluoride’s Mechanism of Action | A-Z Fundamentals of Dentifrice | Continuing Education Course on dentalcare.com
    https://www.dentalcare.com/en-us/ce-courses/ce670/caries-process-and-fluorides-mechanism-of-action
    Dental caries is an infectious disease caused by the complex interaction of cariogenic (caries-causing) bacteria with carbohydrates (i.e., sugars) on the tooth surface over time. […] Cariogenic bacteria metabolize carbohydrates for energy and produce organic acids as byproducts. The acids lower the pH in the plaque biofilm. […] When the pH drops below a critical level (approximately 5.5 for enamel, and 6.2 for dentin), it causes the dissolution of tooth mineral (hydroxyapatite) in a process called demineralization. […] Caries is simply the result of a series of demineralization/remineralization cycles where, over time, demineralization conditions prevail. […] One of the most effective methods to prevent caries is by promoting remineralization and slowing down demineralization. […] When fluoride is present in oral fluids (i.e., saliva), fluorapatite, rather than hydroxyapatite, forms during the remineralization process.
  • #19 A Comprehensive Guide to What Causes Cavities – Comeaux & Stonestreet Dental Group News – Comeaux Dental Group Woodlands Benders Landing
    https://comeauxdds.com/about/news/a-comprehensive-guide-to-what-causes-cavities
    Dental caries, or Latin „rot”, also known as tooth decay, or a „cavity”, is a bacterial infection that results in the destruction and demineralization of the hard tissues (enamels, dentins, and cementum) of the teeth. […] Acid is produced by bacteria from food debris that has accumulated on the tooth’s surface. […] Caries can occur when there are four things that are required: the tooth surface (dentin or enamel), caries-causing bacteria, fermentable carbohydrate (such as sucrose) and time. […] Streptococcus mutagens, Streptococcus sobrinus and lactobacilli are the bacteria that cause dental cavities. […] When the pH of their environment drops below 5.5, teeth are vulnerable to damage. This is called the critical pH. It indicates an acidic environment. […] Certain foods and beverages have a pH below 5.5, which can lead to demineralization without bacteria. This is called erosion and not caries, as the acid is not bacterial.
  • #20 Section 6: Pathophysiology of Caries Process and Influences on Caries Development
    https://www.txhealthsteps.com/static/warehouse/1076-2011-May-4-06vdu11301voz18o4925/section_6.html
    The anti-cariogenic effect of fluoride is well documented. Fluoride and the frequency of ingestion of fermentable carbohydrates are the two greatest issues in the fight against dental caries. […] Frequent exposure to small amounts of fluoride each day is the best way to reduce the risk for developing tooth decay. […] When a person consumes food, cariogenic bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus, can break down carbohydrates in the mouth and produce acids that cause mineral loss in teeth. […] Acid causes demineralization of enamel. […] Frequent snacking promotes acid attack. […] The frequency of sugars and refined carbohydrate intake may be the main dietary variable in caries etiology, affecting colonization by cariogenic bacteria and the development of caries. […] The potential for ECC is related to extended and repetitive feeding times with prolonged exposure of teeth to fermentable carbohydrate without appropriate oral hygiene.
  • #21 Tooth Decay: MedlinePlus
    https://medlineplus.gov/toothdecay.html
    Tooth decay is damage to a tooth’s surface, or enamel. It happens when bacteria in your mouth make acids that attack the enamel. Tooth decay can lead to cavities (dental caries), which are holes in your teeth. If tooth decay is not treated, it can cause pain, infection, and even tooth loss. […] These bacteria combine with food to form a soft, sticky film called plaque. The bacteria in plaque use the sugar and starch in what you eat and drink to make acids. The acids begin to eat away at the minerals on your enamel. Over time, the plaque can harden into tartar. […] You get fluoride from toothpaste, water, and other sources. This fluoride, along with your salvia, helps the enamel repair itself by replacing the minerals. Your teeth go through this natural process of losing minerals and regaining minerals all day long. But if you don’t take care of your teeth and/or you eat and drink lots of sugary or starchy things, your enamel will keep losing minerals. This leads to tooth decay.
  • #22 Dental Caries – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551699/
    Fermentable carbohydrates are metabolized by the biofilm bacteria that produce organic acids, primarily lactic acid. […] These end products of bacterial metabolism accumulate in the fluid phase of the biofilm, causing a pH drop and demineralization of the surface layer of the tooth. […] The enamel porosity increases, the spaces between the crystals widen, and the surface softens, which provides an opportunity for the acids to get deeper into the tooth structure and demineralize the subsurface. […] If the acidic conditions perpetuate, the pH drops will continue, reaching a point when the rate of mineral loss in the subsurface is higher than the surface, resulting in a subsurface lesion. […] A carious tissue consists of four different zones histologically, among which three zones are visible clinically.
  • #23 Dental Caries – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551699/
    Fermentable carbohydrates are metabolized by the biofilm bacteria that produce organic acids, primarily lactic acid. […] These end products of bacterial metabolism accumulate in the fluid phase of the biofilm, causing a pH drop and demineralization of the surface layer of the tooth. […] The enamel porosity increases, the spaces between the crystals widen, and the surface softens, which provides an opportunity for the acids to get deeper into the tooth structure and demineralize the subsurface. […] If the acidic conditions perpetuate, the pH drops will continue, reaching a point when the rate of mineral loss in the subsurface is higher than the surface, resulting in a subsurface lesion. […] A carious tissue consists of four different zones histologically, among which three zones are visible clinically.
  • #24 Tooth Decay: MedlinePlus
    https://medlineplus.gov/toothdecay.html
    A white spot may appear where minerals have been lost. This is an early sign of tooth decay. You may be able to stop or reverse the decay at this point. Your enamel can still repair itself, if you take better care of your teeth and limit sugary/starchy foods and drinks. […] But if the tooth decay process continues, more minerals are lost. Over time, the enamel is weakened and destroyed, forming a cavity. A cavity is a hole in your tooth. It is permanent damage that a dentist has to repair with a filling. […] The main risk factors for tooth decay are not taking care of your teeth and having too many sugary or starchy foods and drinks. […] In early tooth decay, you usually don’t have symptoms. As tooth decay gets worse, it can cause: A toothache (tooth pain), Tooth sensitivity to sweets, hot, or cold, White or brown stains on the surface of a tooth, A cavity, An infection, which can lead to an abscess (pocket of pus) forming. The abscess can cause pain, facial swelling, and fever.
  • #25 Immunology of Dental Caries – Biomedical and Pharmacology Journal
    https://biomedpharmajournal.org/vol9no2/immunology-of-dental-caries/
    Dental caries is a microbiologic infectious disease of the teeth that ends in localized dissolution and destruction of the calcified structure of the teeth. […] The development of dental caries requires the existence of cariogenic bacteria that are capable of producing acid and a sugar present in the diet which favors the colonization of these bacteria to form acid. […] A wide group of microorganisms are determined from carious lesions of which Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Actinomyces viscosus are the main pathogenic species involved in the initiation and development of dental caries. […] Colonization by S. mutans occurs after tooth eruption, and if the fissures become colonized in their depths, then decay may be unavoidable. […] The S. mutans present a set of virulence factors that enables them to adhere to and accumulate in the dental biofilm.
  • #26 Immunology of Dental Caries – Biomedical and Pharmacology Journal
    https://biomedpharmajournal.org/vol9no2/immunology-of-dental-caries/
    One of the major virulence characteristics of S. mutans is precisely its ability to produce Gtfs, enzymes that synthesize intracellular polysaccharides (ICP) and extracellular polysaccharides (ECP) from sucrose of the diet. […] S. mutans that have lost the ability to produce GTF are unable to produce disease in animal models. […] An antibody directed to native GTF or sequences associated with its catalytic or glucan-binding function interfere with the synthetic activity of the enzyme and with in vitro plaque formation. […] Various proteins with glucan-binding properties have been identified in S. mutans and S. sobrinus which are described elsewhere. […] Dextranase, an important enzyme produced by S. mutans, destroys dextran which is an important constituent of the early dental plaque so that the bacterium can easily invade dextran-rich early dental plaque.
  • #27 Breakthrough in dental plaque research | News articles | University of Groningen
    https://www.rug.nl/news/2010/12/190_10?lang=en
    The Groningen professors Bauke Dijkstra and Lubbert Dijkhuizen have deciphered the structure and functional mechanism of the glucansucrase enzyme that is responsible for dental plaque sticking to teeth. […] The bacteria use the glucansucrase enzyme to convert sugar from food into long, sticky sugar chains. They use this glue to attach themselves to tooth enamel. The main cause of tooth decay, the bacterium Streptococcus mutans, also uses this enzyme. Once attached to tooth enamel, these bacteria ferment sugars releasing acids that dissolve the calcium in teeth. This is how caries develops. […] The unravelling of the 3D structure provided the researchers with detailed insight into the functional mechanism of the enzyme. The enzyme splits sucrose into fructose and glucose and then adds the glucose molecule to a growing sugar chain.
  • #28 Breakthrough in dental plaque research | News articles | University of Groningen
    https://www.rug.nl/news/2010/12/190_10?lang=en
    The Groningen professors Bauke Dijkstra and Lubbert Dijkhuizen have deciphered the structure and functional mechanism of the glucansucrase enzyme that is responsible for dental plaque sticking to teeth. […] The bacteria use the glucansucrase enzyme to convert sugar from food into long, sticky sugar chains. They use this glue to attach themselves to tooth enamel. The main cause of tooth decay, the bacterium Streptococcus mutans, also uses this enzyme. Once attached to tooth enamel, these bacteria ferment sugars releasing acids that dissolve the calcium in teeth. This is how caries develops. […] The unravelling of the 3D structure provided the researchers with detailed insight into the functional mechanism of the enzyme. The enzyme splits sucrose into fructose and glucose and then adds the glucose molecule to a growing sugar chain.
  • #29 Breakthrough in dental plaque research | News articles | University of Groningen
    https://www.rug.nl/news/2010/12/190_10?lang=en
    Dijkhuizen expects that specific inhibitors for the glucansucrase enzyme may help to prevent attachment of the bacteria to the tooth enamel. Information about the structure and functional mechanism of the enzyme is crucial for developing such inhibitors. […] The crystal structure also provides an explanation for this double inhibition. […] Future inhibitors thus need to be directed towards very specific targets because both enzymes are evolutionary closely related. […] Dijkhuizen points out that in future glucansucrase inhibitors may be added to toothpaste and mouthwash. But it may even be possible to add them to sweets, he suggests. An inhibitor might prevent that sugars released in the mouth cause damage.
  • #30 Dental Caries – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551699/
    The outer layer consists of the necrotic zone and contaminated zone containing microbial biofilm, which can be appreciated clinically as soft mineralized tissue of the tooth. […] The first clinical sign of the disease is a white spot, which is the expression of the enamel subsurface demineralization – the surface enamel is more mineralized. […] As the caries process progresses, the dentin also experiences mineral loss and bacterial invasion, producing tertiary dentin to protect the pulp. […] The management of dental caries should be aimed at detecting initial lesions, determining caries activity, performing a caries risk assessment, preventing new carious lesions, preserving dental tissue, and maintaining teeth for as long as possible. […] Existing caries should be initially managed by non-invasive procedures (e.g., remineralization, biofilm removal, sealing) instead of removing dental tissue. […] If plaque control measures are performed, the lesion can regress without the need for invasive intervention.
  • #31 Tooth Decay: MedlinePlus
    https://medlineplus.gov/toothdecay.html
    A white spot may appear where minerals have been lost. This is an early sign of tooth decay. You may be able to stop or reverse the decay at this point. Your enamel can still repair itself, if you take better care of your teeth and limit sugary/starchy foods and drinks. […] But if the tooth decay process continues, more minerals are lost. Over time, the enamel is weakened and destroyed, forming a cavity. A cavity is a hole in your tooth. It is permanent damage that a dentist has to repair with a filling. […] The main risk factors for tooth decay are not taking care of your teeth and having too many sugary or starchy foods and drinks. […] In early tooth decay, you usually don’t have symptoms. As tooth decay gets worse, it can cause: A toothache (tooth pain), Tooth sensitivity to sweets, hot, or cold, White or brown stains on the surface of a tooth, A cavity, An infection, which can lead to an abscess (pocket of pus) forming. The abscess can cause pain, facial swelling, and fever.
  • #32 Dental Caries – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551699/
    Fermentable carbohydrates are metabolized by the biofilm bacteria that produce organic acids, primarily lactic acid. […] These end products of bacterial metabolism accumulate in the fluid phase of the biofilm, causing a pH drop and demineralization of the surface layer of the tooth. […] The enamel porosity increases, the spaces between the crystals widen, and the surface softens, which provides an opportunity for the acids to get deeper into the tooth structure and demineralize the subsurface. […] If the acidic conditions perpetuate, the pH drops will continue, reaching a point when the rate of mineral loss in the subsurface is higher than the surface, resulting in a subsurface lesion. […] A carious tissue consists of four different zones histologically, among which three zones are visible clinically.
  • #33 The pathogenesis of dental caries made e | PPT
    https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/the-pathogenesis-of-dental-caries-made-e/273150238
    histopathology histopathology A. Smooth surface caries The earliest manifestation of incipient caries are areas of decalcification beneath dental plaque which show loss of interprismatic substance and increased prominence of rods. Transverse striations appear in enamel rods because of changes in calcospherites. The striae of Retzius become accentuated due to loss of minerals which allow the organic structures to appear more prominent. As the process advances, the lesion take on a typical cone shape with its base towards enamel surface and apex towards the amelo-dentinal junction. The surface roughens as a result of superficial loss of exposed ends of enamel prisms. […] The following zones can be identified histopathologically from the inside towards the outer surface Zone 1 A translucent zone is at the advancing front of the carious lesion It is more porous in polarized light 1% pores if compared with sound enamel which has a pore concentration of 0.1% Zone 2 A dark zone is adjacent and superficial to the translucent zone. Referred to as positive’ zone Forms as a result of demineralization of hard tissue and contain 2.4% pores per unit area The pores are narrower than those in 1st zone bse they are partially filled by the insoluble organic matrix from the 3rd zone.
  • #34 Dental Caries – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551699/
    The outer layer consists of the necrotic zone and contaminated zone containing microbial biofilm, which can be appreciated clinically as soft mineralized tissue of the tooth. […] The first clinical sign of the disease is a white spot, which is the expression of the enamel subsurface demineralization – the surface enamel is more mineralized. […] As the caries process progresses, the dentin also experiences mineral loss and bacterial invasion, producing tertiary dentin to protect the pulp. […] The management of dental caries should be aimed at detecting initial lesions, determining caries activity, performing a caries risk assessment, preventing new carious lesions, preserving dental tissue, and maintaining teeth for as long as possible. […] Existing caries should be initially managed by non-invasive procedures (e.g., remineralization, biofilm removal, sealing) instead of removing dental tissue. […] If plaque control measures are performed, the lesion can regress without the need for invasive intervention.
  • #35 The pathogenesis of dental caries made e | PPT
    https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/the-pathogenesis-of-dental-caries-made-e/273150238
    Zone 3 Deminiralization zone – forms the bulk of the lesion It represents an area of greatest demineralization The pore volume lies btw 5% at the periphery and 25% in the central area. This is due to severe loss of C++, phosphates and carbonate ions from enamel crystals Zone 4 Surperficial zone (surface zone) Appr. 30 microns thick and appears relatively normal Contains large amount of insoluble organic matrix and high concentrations of fluoride. Is highly resistant to acid degradation and is eventually lost after undermining by the 3rd zone (acid decalcification and cavity formation […] Caries of dentine Caries of dentine begins with its lateral spread along amelodentinal junction, and with rapid involvement of great number of dentinal tubules. Each tubuli acts as tract which microorganisms can eventually reach the pulp chamber Early dentinal changes Dentinal sclerosis-a vital pulp attempting to prevent the penetration of microorganisms by sealing off the dentinal tubuli thro calcification Dentinal sclerosis is preceded by fatty degeneration of the odontoblastic processes in the tubuli Although dentinal sclerosis delays the process, it can not stop it completely […] Caries of secondary dentine Does not differ with that of primary dentine But, usually slower process due to fewer and irregular dentinal tubules thus delaying penetration of microorganisms through the dentine
  • #36 The Importance of Tooth Decay Treatment – Stiles Dental Care
    https://www.medfordsmiles.com/2024/01/the-importance-of-tooth-decay-treatment/
    Calcium, a vital mineral, is instrumental in maintaining the strength and integrity of tooth enamel. It plays a crucial role in the remineralization process, where damaged tooth enamel is repaired by incorporating calcium and other minerals back into the enamel structure. […] Understanding how tooth decay progresses emphasizes the importance of early treatment and regular dental cleanings to prevent further decay and complications. […] The progression of tooth decay occurs in several stages, starting with the erosion of enamel, the outermost layer of the tooth, and extending into deeper layers, such as dentin and pulp. […] If untreated, tooth decay can progress to the pulp, which houses blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. When the decay reaches the pulp, individuals may experience severe tooth pain, abscesses, or infections.
  • #37 The Disease: 2 Etiology and Pathogenesis of Caries | Pocket Dentistry
    https://pocketdentistry.com/part-1-caries-science-6/
    In economically developed populations, primary caries lesions are initiated in children on the enamel surface: most commonly in occlusal pits and fissures, less often on approximal surfaces, and rarely on smooth surfaces. […] Between cariogenic challenges, plaque pH returns toward resting levels which are approximately neutral, and this allows the possibility that mineral ions in plaque can contribute to re-deposition of mineral within the caries lesion: a process known as remineralization. […] If the balance between these processes favors demineralization, caries lesions progress and ultimately the damage to the tissue, due to mechanical breakdown (enamel) or to bacterial action (dentin), becomes irreversible. […] Despite this apparently simple etiology, caries is regarded as a multifactorial disease, for two main reasons.
  • #38 The Importance of Tooth Decay Treatment – Stiles Dental Care
    https://www.medfordsmiles.com/2024/01/the-importance-of-tooth-decay-treatment/
    Tooth decay, also referred to as dental caries, is the result of a complex interplay of factors that lead to the erosion of tooth enamel, the outer protective layer of the teeth. […] The process of tooth decay involves a combination of factors, including dental plaque, saliva, tooth enamel, and calcium. Dental plaque is an accumulation of bacteria, food particles, and saliva that adhere to the tooth surfaces. When plaque comes into contact with sugary or starchy foods, the bacteria in plaque ferment the carbohydrates and produce acids. These acids attack the tooth enamel, which is primarily made up of calcium and other minerals. Over time, the repetitive acid attacks weaken and erode the enamel, creating cavities. […] Saliva plays a crucial role in tooth decay prevention and repair. It acts as a natural defense mechanism by diluting acids, neutralizing harmful bacteria, and providing essential minerals, such as calcium and phosphate, to remineralize the enamel.
  • #39 Tooth decay | Better Health Channel
    https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/Tooth-decay
    A reduced flow of saliva (dry mouth) can increase your risk of tooth decay. […] Early tooth decay is reversible. Saliva can deposit mineral back onto the tooth surface, and improvements in your diet and oral hygiene make a big difference. […] Your dentist can treat early areas of tooth decay with fluoride or other products to help with this process. […] Regular visits to the dentist (every 6 to 12 months) are important so that decay can be identified at this early stage when a filling can be avoided. […] As decay gets worse, people often experience sensitivity to sweet, cold or hot food and drinks. […] If your tooth has been aching then decay may have reached the centre of the tooth and the nerve inside.
  • #40 Tooth decay | Better Health Channel
    https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/Tooth-decay
    A reduced flow of saliva (dry mouth) can increase your risk of tooth decay. […] Early tooth decay is reversible. Saliva can deposit mineral back onto the tooth surface, and improvements in your diet and oral hygiene make a big difference. […] Your dentist can treat early areas of tooth decay with fluoride or other products to help with this process. […] Regular visits to the dentist (every 6 to 12 months) are important so that decay can be identified at this early stage when a filling can be avoided. […] As decay gets worse, people often experience sensitivity to sweet, cold or hot food and drinks. […] If your tooth has been aching then decay may have reached the centre of the tooth and the nerve inside.
  • #41 The Caries Process & Fluoride’s Mechanism of Action | A-Z Fundamentals of Dentifrice | Continuing Education Course on dentalcare.com
    https://www.dentalcare.com/en-us/ce-courses/ce670/caries-process-and-fluorides-mechanism-of-action
    Dental caries is an infectious disease caused by the complex interaction of cariogenic (caries-causing) bacteria with carbohydrates (i.e., sugars) on the tooth surface over time. […] Cariogenic bacteria metabolize carbohydrates for energy and produce organic acids as byproducts. The acids lower the pH in the plaque biofilm. […] When the pH drops below a critical level (approximately 5.5 for enamel, and 6.2 for dentin), it causes the dissolution of tooth mineral (hydroxyapatite) in a process called demineralization. […] Caries is simply the result of a series of demineralization/remineralization cycles where, over time, demineralization conditions prevail. […] One of the most effective methods to prevent caries is by promoting remineralization and slowing down demineralization. […] When fluoride is present in oral fluids (i.e., saliva), fluorapatite, rather than hydroxyapatite, forms during the remineralization process.
  • #42 The Caries Process & Fluoride’s Mechanism of Action | A-Z Fundamentals of Dentifrice | Continuing Education Course on dentalcare.com
    https://www.dentalcare.com/en-us/ce-courses/ce670/caries-process-and-fluorides-mechanism-of-action
    Fluoride ions (F-) replace hydroxyl groups (OH) in the formation of the apatite crystal lattice. […] Fluorapatite is inherently less soluble than hydroxyapatite, even under acidic conditions. […] When hydroxyapatite dissolves under cariogenic (acidic) conditions, if fluoride is present, then fluorapatite will form. […] Because fluorapatite is less soluble than hydroxyapatite, it is also more resistant to subsequent demineralization when acid challenged. […] Under cariogenic conditions, carbohydrates are converted to acids by bacteria in the plaque biofilm. […] When the pH drops below 5.5, the biofilm fluid becomes undersaturated with phosphate ion and enamel dissolves to restore balance. […] When fluoride (F) is present, fluorapatite is incorporated into demineralized enamel and subsequent demineralization is inhibited. […] With fluoride treatment, a noncavitated lesion can be remineralized with fluorapatite and have greater resistance to subsequent demineralization than hydroxyapatite. […] Even when available at very low concentrations, fluoride is effective as an anticaries agent.
  • #43 The Caries Process & Fluoride’s Mechanism of Action | A-Z Fundamentals of Dentifrice | Continuing Education Course on dentalcare.com
    https://www.dentalcare.com/en-us/ce-courses/ce670/caries-process-and-fluorides-mechanism-of-action
    Fluoride ions (F-) replace hydroxyl groups (OH) in the formation of the apatite crystal lattice. […] Fluorapatite is inherently less soluble than hydroxyapatite, even under acidic conditions. […] When hydroxyapatite dissolves under cariogenic (acidic) conditions, if fluoride is present, then fluorapatite will form. […] Because fluorapatite is less soluble than hydroxyapatite, it is also more resistant to subsequent demineralization when acid challenged. […] Under cariogenic conditions, carbohydrates are converted to acids by bacteria in the plaque biofilm. […] When the pH drops below 5.5, the biofilm fluid becomes undersaturated with phosphate ion and enamel dissolves to restore balance. […] When fluoride (F) is present, fluorapatite is incorporated into demineralized enamel and subsequent demineralization is inhibited. […] With fluoride treatment, a noncavitated lesion can be remineralized with fluorapatite and have greater resistance to subsequent demineralization than hydroxyapatite. […] Even when available at very low concentrations, fluoride is effective as an anticaries agent.
  • #44 Etiopathogenesis of Dental Caries | IntechOpen
    https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/89063
    Recent research shows that the appearance of caries is directly dependent on the presence of secretory immunoglobulin IgA in saliva. The amount of IgA less than 14.2 mg/100 ml in saliva enables the rapid development of Streptococcus mutans, one of the most dangerous causes for the appearance of caries. […] Dental caries is a dynamic process characterized by the interaction of susceptible tooth surfaces; cariogenic bacteria, primarily Streptococcus mutans; and a fermentable carbohydrate source. Among dietary sugars, sucrose is the most common and is considered the most cariogenic carbohydrate. The risk of developing dental caries is heightened with frequent consumption of carbohydrates, especially in the form of simple sugars. […] Dental caries occurs when the demineralization of the enamel surpasses its demineralization capacity. Bacteria present in dental plaque metabolize fermentable carbohydrates, especially sucrose, from the diet. This metabolic activity produces organic acids, leading to a decrease in pH. It is hypothesized that when the pH falls below 5.5, demineralization of the enamel occurs—a threshold known as the critical pH. This demineralization process occurs each time fermentable carbohydrates are consumed.
  • #45 Dental Caries (Tooth Decay)
    https://www.dentalhealth.ie/adult-oral-health/terms/dental-caries-tooth-decay/
    The intake of sugar between meals increases the periods of time that plaque pH dips below the critical level of 5.5. When plaque pH is lower than 5.5, remineralisation occurs. […] Subjecting teeth to frequent bouts of demineralisation allows less time for their remineralisation; thus, teeth become more susceptible to decay. […] Pit and fissure sealants create a thin barrier preventing the access of plaque and plaque acids to the enamel surface. […] Sealants must be applied by a dental professional, i.e., a dentist or dental hygienist.
  • #46 Section 6: Pathophysiology of Caries Process and Influences on Caries Development
    https://www.txhealthsteps.com/static/warehouse/1076-2011-May-4-06vdu11301voz18o4925/section_6.html
    The anti-cariogenic effect of fluoride is well documented. Fluoride and the frequency of ingestion of fermentable carbohydrates are the two greatest issues in the fight against dental caries. […] Frequent exposure to small amounts of fluoride each day is the best way to reduce the risk for developing tooth decay. […] When a person consumes food, cariogenic bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus, can break down carbohydrates in the mouth and produce acids that cause mineral loss in teeth. […] Acid causes demineralization of enamel. […] Frequent snacking promotes acid attack. […] The frequency of sugars and refined carbohydrate intake may be the main dietary variable in caries etiology, affecting colonization by cariogenic bacteria and the development of caries. […] The potential for ECC is related to extended and repetitive feeding times with prolonged exposure of teeth to fermentable carbohydrate without appropriate oral hygiene.
  • #47 What Causes Tooth Decay | The Process of Tooth Decay | Pearl Dentistry
    https://pearlcharlotte.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-process-of-tooth-decay/
    To fully understand the process of tooth decay, it is crucial to first get to know what can be found naturally in your mouth. […] Saliva maintains your teeth and keeps other parts of the mouth moist and helps get rid of any food remnants in your mouth. Our saliva has several minerals which strengthen our teeth and also has buffering agents which significantly lower the acidity in our mouths that is usually the main cause of tooth decay. […] The bacteria which is found in the mouth requires food to survive and grow in number. When you consume foods that are sugary or starchy, for example, bread, the bacteria will utilize these foods as its own food. The bacteria will thereafter produce acid which can soften your tooth enamel. […] The bacteria that is found in your mouth will convert the sugar in these type of foods into acids. The acids will then be used in dissolving the mineral crystals in your teeth. Therefore, the more frequently you consume them in a day, the more risks you expose your teeth to. The acid attacks can easily result in tooth decay, or what is commonly referred to as dental cavities or carries. […] As soon as the decay succeeds in breaking through your enamel and result in a cavity, the damage done cannot be reversed.
  • #48 Tooth Decay cause & prevention — Optimal Oral Health Center
    https://www.optimaloralhealthcenter.com/tooth-decay-cause-prevention
    Tooth decay, technically dental caries, is due to the effect that normal oral bacteria have on the teeth. […] In the presence of sugar, they produce lactic acid. […] When the mouth is frequently loaded with sugar the strep mutans and lactobacillus population soar and their waste product, lactic acid, reaches a high enough concentration to dissolve tooth enamel. […] Finely ground wheat is quickly converted to sugar by the salivary maltase and this sugar nourishes the bacteria, which in turn produce large amounts of acid, which in turn dissolves tooth enamel, making holes in it called cavities. […] Decay occurs within twenty minutes after sticky, finely ground starch adheres to the tooth surface. […] Young children are often poorly nourished from a dental point of view: Popularly acceptable food for young children includes starchy crackers
  • #49 Dental Caries (Tooth Decay)
    https://www.dentalhealth.ie/adult-oral-health/terms/dental-caries-tooth-decay/
    Tooth decay is caused by the action of acids on the enamel surface produced when sugars (mainly sucrose) in foods or drinks react with bacteria present in the dental biofilm (plaque) on the tooth surface. The acid produced leads to a loss of calcium and phosphate from the enamel; this process is called demineralisation. […] Saliva acts to dilute and neutralise the acid which causes demineralisation and is an important natural defence against caries. […] The problem arises when sugar containing foods/drinks are taken more often than four times a day! They are then unable to restore the natural balance between attacks and tooth decay is the result. […] Frequent consumption of sugars is associated with tooth decay. […] Sugar consumption remains a moderate risk factor for tooth decay even when populations have adequate exposure to fluoride.
  • #50 Sugars and tooth decay – Action on Sugar
    https://www.actiononsugar.org/sugar-and-health/sugars-and-tooth-decay/
    The report published by the WHO and by the SACN highlight the need for a reduction in sugars intake to 5% of our energy intake. This is the equivalent of 7 teaspoons/cubes or 30g of sugar per day for an adult. The recommendation for children is 24g for children aged 5-11 and 19g for children aged 4-6. This 5% limit is far below the current intake which is of 11.9% in children aged 1.5 to 3; 14.7% in children aged 4 to 10; and 15.6% in children 11 to 18. It is also thought that adherence to the 5% recommended sugar intake would halt the increase in obesity.
  • #51 15: Dental Caries | Pocket Dentistry
    https://pocketdentistry.com/15-dental-caries/
    According to this theory few odontoblasts, within the pulp of few certain teeth are damaged by the autoimmune mechanisms, leading to a compromised defense mechanism and the loss of integrity of enamel or dentin. […] This theory is based on the fact that plaque bacteria produces enzymes. […] It is believed that the acids produced have a major role in enamel dissolution and the enzymes probably play a greater role in dentinal dissolution. […] Levine proposed that the demineralization and remineralization of enamel is a continuous process. […] The four factors contributing to the caries process are (Figure 1): Host factor, Microflora, Substrate or diet (physical nature and chemical nature), Time. […] Compared to the smooth surfaces of teeth, deep pits and fissures are more prone to carious attack because of food lodgment and bacterial stagnation.
  • #52 15: Dental Caries | Pocket Dentistry
    https://pocketdentistry.com/15-dental-caries/
    The chemical components of enamel such as dicalcium phosphate dihydrate and fluorapatite make the enamel resistant to carious attack to a certain extent. […] Hay et al (1982) and Lagerlof (1983) in their reports reiterated the fact that human salivary secretions are supersaturated on calcium and phosphate. […] The primary oral innate defense factors are peroxidase systems, lysozyme, lactoferrin, and histatins. […] The main etiological agent in occlusal and pit and fissure caries is the S. mutans. […] It is a well-known fact that food with high refined carbohydrate content has the greatest potential to give rise to carious lesions.
  • #53 The Disease: 2 Etiology and Pathogenesis of Caries | Pocket Dentistry
    https://pocketdentistry.com/part-1-caries-science-6/
    In economically developed populations, primary caries lesions are initiated in children on the enamel surface: most commonly in occlusal pits and fissures, less often on approximal surfaces, and rarely on smooth surfaces. […] Between cariogenic challenges, plaque pH returns toward resting levels which are approximately neutral, and this allows the possibility that mineral ions in plaque can contribute to re-deposition of mineral within the caries lesion: a process known as remineralization. […] If the balance between these processes favors demineralization, caries lesions progress and ultimately the damage to the tissue, due to mechanical breakdown (enamel) or to bacterial action (dentin), becomes irreversible. […] Despite this apparently simple etiology, caries is regarded as a multifactorial disease, for two main reasons.
  • #54 15: Dental Caries | Pocket Dentistry
    https://pocketdentistry.com/15-dental-caries/
    It is believed that enamel lamellae and enamel rods which are composed of organic material form the pathways for the advancing microorganisms. […] Gottlieb in 1944 suggested that the initial lesion of the carious process is due to the proteolytic enzymes attacking the lamellae, rod sheaths, tufts and walls of tubules. […] Some of the minor flaws of the acidogenic and the proteolytic theories were addressed in the proteolysis-chelation theory. […] The proteolysis-chelation theory considers dental caries to be a bacterial destruction of organic components of enamel and the breakdown products of these organic components to have chelating properties and thereby dissolve the minerals in the enamel even at the neutral/alkaline pH. […] This theory proposes that if there is a very high concentration of sucrose in the mouth of a caries-active individual, there can be formation of complex substances like calcium saccharate and calcium complexing intermediaries by the action of phosphorelating enzymes.
  • #55 Section 6: Pathophysiology of Caries Process and Influences on Caries Development
    https://www.txhealthsteps.com/static/warehouse/1076-2011-May-4-06vdu11301voz18o4925/section_6.html
    The anti-cariogenic effect of fluoride is well documented. Fluoride and the frequency of ingestion of fermentable carbohydrates are the two greatest issues in the fight against dental caries. […] Frequent exposure to small amounts of fluoride each day is the best way to reduce the risk for developing tooth decay. […] When a person consumes food, cariogenic bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus, can break down carbohydrates in the mouth and produce acids that cause mineral loss in teeth. […] Acid causes demineralization of enamel. […] Frequent snacking promotes acid attack. […] The frequency of sugars and refined carbohydrate intake may be the main dietary variable in caries etiology, affecting colonization by cariogenic bacteria and the development of caries. […] The potential for ECC is related to extended and repetitive feeding times with prolonged exposure of teeth to fermentable carbohydrate without appropriate oral hygiene.
  • #56 Section 6: Pathophysiology of Caries Process and Influences on Caries Development
    https://www.txhealthsteps.com/static/warehouse/1076-2011-May-4-06vdu11301voz18o4925/section_6.html
    The anti-cariogenic effect of fluoride is well documented. Fluoride and the frequency of ingestion of fermentable carbohydrates are the two greatest issues in the fight against dental caries. […] Frequent exposure to small amounts of fluoride each day is the best way to reduce the risk for developing tooth decay. […] When a person consumes food, cariogenic bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus, can break down carbohydrates in the mouth and produce acids that cause mineral loss in teeth. […] Acid causes demineralization of enamel. […] Frequent snacking promotes acid attack. […] The frequency of sugars and refined carbohydrate intake may be the main dietary variable in caries etiology, affecting colonization by cariogenic bacteria and the development of caries. […] The potential for ECC is related to extended and repetitive feeding times with prolonged exposure of teeth to fermentable carbohydrate without appropriate oral hygiene.
  • #57 Section 6: Pathophysiology of Caries Process and Influences on Caries Development
    https://www.txhealthsteps.com/static/warehouse/1076-2010-May-3-368d6u199b5u94p7y47o/section_6.html
    Caries develops when there is a susceptible tooth exposed to pathogenic flora (bacteria) in the presence of substrate (the surface on which an organism grows). Under these conditions, the bacteria metabolize substrate to form acid that decalcifies teeth. […] As shown in Figure 1, caries can occur if oral flora contains acid-producing bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans. […] The human oral cavity has little cariogenic potential until it is infected by pathogenic organisms. Streptococcus mutans is currently considered the principal caries-causing bacteria, but Streptococcus sobrinus may also be involved. […] The anti-cariogenic effect of fluoride is well documented. […] Frequent exposure to small amounts of fluoride each day is the best way to reduce the risk for developing tooth decay. Fluoride combines into the tooth structure to make enamel more resistant to acid attack.
  • #58 The Disease: 2 Etiology and Pathogenesis of Caries | Pocket Dentistry
    https://pocketdentistry.com/part-1-caries-science-6/
    The risk of caries occurrence, and the rate at which the disease progresses, are influenced by a large number of factors. […] The demineralization-remineralization balance in caries etiology. […] Caries is profoundly influenced by exposure to fluoride, which reduces demineralization and enhances remineralization. […] The aims of this chapter are to outline the relevant biological and chemical factors, and to describe their interactions in caries initiation and progression. […] In caries, the latter process is usually manifested as re-growth of partly-dissolved crystals, although precipitation of new crystals can occur. […] The solubility of hydroxyapatite increases particularly rapidly with pH, by a factor of ca. 10 per pH unit fall. […] The lower solubility of fluorapatite also affects crystal growth.
  • #59 The Disease: 2 Etiology and Pathogenesis of Caries | Pocket Dentistry
    https://pocketdentistry.com/part-1-caries-science-6/
    The overall rate of dissolution is therefore slower than in the absence of fluoride, and the higher the concentration of fluoride in the ambient solution the greater the effect, because a greater proportion of the crystals surfaces is converted to fluorapatite. […] This phenomenon is due to replacement of OH ions by F ions at the crystal surfaces, probably not much deeper than one unit cell thickness.
  • #60 5. What role does fluoride play in preventing tooth decay?
    https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/fluoridation/en/l-3/5.htm
    Furthermore water fluoridation offers additional benefits over alternative topical methods because its effect does not depend on individual compliance. […] The benefits of preventive systemic supplementations (salt or milk fluoridation) are not proven. […] Topical application of fluoride in the oral cavity has two advantages: a) application at the site of action; and b) reducing the systemic exposure since in subjects with an adequate spitting response, only a percentage (adults 10%, young children 40%) of the fluoride applied becomes systemically available. […] The effect of continued systemic exposure of fluoride from whatever source is questionable once the permanent teeth have erupted. SCHER agrees that topical application of fluoride is most effective in preventing tooth decay. Topical fluoride sustains the fluoride levels in the oral cavity and helps to prevent caries, with reduced systemic availability.
  • #61 5. What role does fluoride play in preventing tooth decay?
    https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/fluoridation/en/l-3/5.htm
    Furthermore water fluoridation offers additional benefits over alternative topical methods because its effect does not depend on individual compliance. […] The benefits of preventive systemic supplementations (salt or milk fluoridation) are not proven. […] Topical application of fluoride in the oral cavity has two advantages: a) application at the site of action; and b) reducing the systemic exposure since in subjects with an adequate spitting response, only a percentage (adults 10%, young children 40%) of the fluoride applied becomes systemically available. […] The effect of continued systemic exposure of fluoride from whatever source is questionable once the permanent teeth have erupted. SCHER agrees that topical application of fluoride is most effective in preventing tooth decay. Topical fluoride sustains the fluoride levels in the oral cavity and helps to prevent caries, with reduced systemic availability.
  • #62 New understanding of the systematic relation to the etiology of dental caries – IJOHD
    https://www.ijohd.org/html-article/23703
    Dental caries is the localized destruction of tooth tissues (enamel, dentin, and cementum) due to metabolic activities in the oral biofilm. The process is characterized by the gradual demineralization of the tooth, driven by a disturbance in the physiological equilibrium within the biofilm or dental plaque. Without intervention, caries progress slowly until the tooth is destroyed. […] The pathogenesis of dental caries involves complex interactions between microbial biofilms, tooth structure, and systemic factors. Effective management requires a comprehensive approach that includes maintaining oral hygiene, disrupting biofilm regularly, and considering the dynamic nature of enamel and dentin responses. […] Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are enzymes that play a significant role in the breakdown of extracellular matrix components. In the context of dental caries, MMPs such as MMP-8, MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-3, MMP-14, and MMP-20 are found in the pulp, odontoblasts, and dentine. These MMPs contribute to the degradation of dentinal collagen, which is a crucial step in the progression of caries from the dentin-pulp complex to the enamel surface. The systemic theory suggests that the activity of these MMPs is influenced by systemic conditions such as oxidative stress and nutritional deficiencies, which can exacerbate the caries process.
  • #63 New understanding of the systematic relation to the etiology of dental caries – IJOHD
    https://www.ijohd.org/html-article/23703
    Dental caries is the localized destruction of tooth tissues (enamel, dentin, and cementum) due to metabolic activities in the oral biofilm. The process is characterized by the gradual demineralization of the tooth, driven by a disturbance in the physiological equilibrium within the biofilm or dental plaque. Without intervention, caries progress slowly until the tooth is destroyed. […] The pathogenesis of dental caries involves complex interactions between microbial biofilms, tooth structure, and systemic factors. Effective management requires a comprehensive approach that includes maintaining oral hygiene, disrupting biofilm regularly, and considering the dynamic nature of enamel and dentin responses. […] Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are enzymes that play a significant role in the breakdown of extracellular matrix components. In the context of dental caries, MMPs such as MMP-8, MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-3, MMP-14, and MMP-20 are found in the pulp, odontoblasts, and dentine. These MMPs contribute to the degradation of dentinal collagen, which is a crucial step in the progression of caries from the dentin-pulp complex to the enamel surface. The systemic theory suggests that the activity of these MMPs is influenced by systemic conditions such as oxidative stress and nutritional deficiencies, which can exacerbate the caries process.
  • #64 New understanding of the systematic relation to the etiology of dental caries – IJOHD
    https://www.ijohd.org/html-article/23703
    Oxidative stress results from an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body’s antioxidant defenses. This imbalance leads to cellular damage and inflammation, contributing to various diseases, including dental caries. High levels of oxidative stress in the oral cavity can disrupt dentinal fluid flow, leading to increased susceptibility to bacterial acids. […] Vitamin K2 is essential for the activation of proteins involved in calcium metabolism, which is crucial for maintaining bone and dental health. It has been proposed that vitamin K2 deficiency can lead to impaired mineralization of teeth, making them more susceptible to caries. The systemic theory of dental caries posits that adequate levels of vitamin K2 are necessary to regulate the activity of MMPs and maintain the structural integrity of dentin and enamel.
  • #65 How probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics prevent dental caries: an oral microbiota perspective | npj Biofilms and Microbiomes
    https://www.nature.com/articles/s41522-024-00488-7
    Dental caries arises from an imbalance in the oral microbiota resulting from a complex interplay between the host, diet, and microorganisms. […] The cariogenic bacteria exhibit varying degrees of contribution to the development of dental caries. For decades, Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus have been widely recognized as the major cariogenic agents. […] The close association between S. mutans and dental caries has been confirmed. […] Therefore, further elucidating the pathogenic mechanisms of S. mutans is essential for the development of effective strategies for caries prevention and treatment. […] The virulence factor of S. mutans can be categorized into four major groups, comprising EPS synthesis, adhesion, acid production, and acid resistance. […] The ability of S. mutans to exert its pathogenicity is largely attributed to the production of EPS.
  • #66 Etiopathogenesis of Dental Caries | IntechOpen
    https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/89063
    Additionally, iatrogenic factors, which are unintended consequences of medical or dental treatments, can also contribute to the development of caries. […] This chapter aims to offer a comprehensive perspective on the various factors influencing dental caries, enhancing understanding of the complexities in its prevention and management. […] The likelihood of developing tooth decay in individuals is influenced by various factors, including the immune system and the oral microbiome. The oral microbiome, in turn, is shaped by both environmental and genetic determinants. These interrelated elements contribute to the complex dynamics of oral health, highlighting the importance of understanding how genetic and environmental factors interact to impact an individual’s susceptibility to tooth decay.
  • #67 Preventive effects of probiotics on dental caries in vitro and in vivo | BMC Oral Health | Full Text
    https://bmcoralhealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12903-024-04703-x
    Dental caries is a common disease in the oral cavity, and the microorganisms in the cavity are colonized in the form of dental plaque biofilm. […] Using probiotics to inhibit the growth and colonization of pathogenic bacteria, regulate mucosal immunity and improve oral microecological balance is an effective way to prevent or treat dental caries. […] The study showed that the combination of the four strains can reduce the cavity scores, and the four strains can be used as products in oral care products. At the same time, the study also suggests that probiotic therapy can be an effective way to prevent dental caries. […] Recent studies have shown that tooth decay is the result of a synergistic action of several species. Of these, S. mutans, L. acidophilus, and Actinomyces viscosus may be considered the main pathogenic species involved in the initiation and development of dental caries.
  • #68 Azthena logo with the word Azthena
    https://www.news-medical.net/news/20230608/Newly-discovered-bacterial-species-can-have-a-major-role-in-causing-tooth-decay.aspx
    Collaborating researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and the Adams School of Dentistry and Gillings School of Global Public Health at the University of North Carolina have discovered that a bacterial species called Selenomonas sputigena can have a major role in causing tooth decay. […] However, in the study, which appeared 22 May in Nature Communications, the Penn Dental Medicine and UNC researchers showed that S. sputigena, previously associated only with gum disease, can work as a key partner of S. mutans, greatly enhancing its cavity-making power. […] This was an unexpected finding that gives us new insights into the development of caries, highlights potential future targets for cavity prevention, and reveals novel mechanisms of bacterial biofilm formation that may be relevant in other clinical contexts.
  • #69 Azthena logo with the word Azthena
    https://www.news-medical.net/news/20230608/Newly-discovered-bacterial-species-can-have-a-major-role-in-causing-tooth-decay.aspx
    The data showed that although S. sputigena is only one of several caries-linked bacterial species in plaque besides S. mutans, and does not cause caries on its own, it has a striking ability to partner with S. mutans to boost the caries process. […] The researchers observed that S. sputigena, which possesses small appendages allowing it to move across surfaces, can become trapped by these glucans. […] The result of this unexpected partnership, as the researchers showed using animal models, is a greatly increased and concentrated production of acid, which significantly worsens caries severity. […] The findings, Koo said, show a more complex microbial interaction than was thought to occur, and provide a better understanding of how childhood cavities develop – an understanding that could lead to better ways of preventing cavities. […] „Disrupting these protective S. sputigena superstructures using specific enzymes or more precise and effective methods of tooth-brushing could be one approach,” Koo said.
  • #70 Preventive effects of probiotics on dental caries in vitro and in vivo | BMC Oral Health | Full Text
    https://bmcoralhealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12903-024-04703-x
    The cell surface protein PAc is an S. mutans virulence factor because it is involved in the initial adherence of the organism to tooth surfaces. […] As S. mutans adheres to the tooth surface, it forms biofilm dental plaque. The formation of a bacterial biofilm plaque is a prerequisite for the occurrence of caries. […] Therefore, inhibiting the growth of S. mutans and removing the biofilm formed by S. mutans is an important method of treating dental caries. […] Probiotics are a group of active microorganisms that are beneficial to their hosts. […] The screening of candidate oral probiotics based on their abilities to inhibit S. mutans growth and biofilm formation may represent an alternative means of preventing tooth decay. […] The inhibitory effects of probiotics against S. mutans may be due to antimicrobial substances produced by probiotics, including organic acids, hydrogen peroxide, bacteriolytic enzymes, bacteriocins, and biosurfactants.
  • #71 How probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics prevent dental caries: an oral microbiota perspective | npj Biofilms and Microbiomes
    https://www.nature.com/articles/s41522-024-00488-7
    Probiotics were first introduced by Meurman and colleagues, who found that Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG ATCC 53103 could colonize the human mouth. […] With further research, probiotics have been found to have a remarkable ability to prevent dental caries. […] The mechanism through which probiotics can prevent dental caries is similar to that found in the gastrointestinal tract. […] The principal inhibitory mechanisms include the synthesis of active metabolites, inhibition of cariogenic microbial biofilm, competitive adhesion and colonization, coaggregation with pathogens, and regulation of the immune system. […] Probiotics can inhibit or remove the biofilm of oral cariogenic microorganisms. […] Probiotics not only occupy the colonized sites in the oral cavity but also inhibit the adhesion ability of cariogenic microorganisms.
  • #72 How probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics prevent dental caries: an oral microbiota perspective | npj Biofilms and Microbiomes
    https://www.nature.com/articles/s41522-024-00488-7
    Probiotics were first introduced by Meurman and colleagues, who found that Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG ATCC 53103 could colonize the human mouth. […] With further research, probiotics have been found to have a remarkable ability to prevent dental caries. […] The mechanism through which probiotics can prevent dental caries is similar to that found in the gastrointestinal tract. […] The principal inhibitory mechanisms include the synthesis of active metabolites, inhibition of cariogenic microbial biofilm, competitive adhesion and colonization, coaggregation with pathogens, and regulation of the immune system. […] Probiotics can inhibit or remove the biofilm of oral cariogenic microorganisms. […] Probiotics not only occupy the colonized sites in the oral cavity but also inhibit the adhesion ability of cariogenic microorganisms.
  • #73 How probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics prevent dental caries: an oral microbiota perspective | npj Biofilms and Microbiomes
    https://www.nature.com/articles/s41522-024-00488-7
    Probiotics were first introduced by Meurman and colleagues, who found that Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG ATCC 53103 could colonize the human mouth. […] With further research, probiotics have been found to have a remarkable ability to prevent dental caries. […] The mechanism through which probiotics can prevent dental caries is similar to that found in the gastrointestinal tract. […] The principal inhibitory mechanisms include the synthesis of active metabolites, inhibition of cariogenic microbial biofilm, competitive adhesion and colonization, coaggregation with pathogens, and regulation of the immune system. […] Probiotics can inhibit or remove the biofilm of oral cariogenic microorganisms. […] Probiotics not only occupy the colonized sites in the oral cavity but also inhibit the adhesion ability of cariogenic microorganisms.
  • #74 How probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics prevent dental caries: an oral microbiota perspective | npj Biofilms and Microbiomes
    https://www.nature.com/articles/s41522-024-00488-7
    Probiotics activate or modulate the host immune system, thereby enhancing the immune response to cariogenic microorganisms. […] The combined use of probiotics and prebiotics has demonstrated superior therapeutic effects compared to their utilization. […] The term synbiotics was first coined in 1995 by Gibson et al. to describe the combination of probiotics and prebiotics. […] Postbiotics are considered superior to probiotics due to their good acid-base and thermal stability, ease of storage and use, and high safety. […] In the context of dental caries prevention and treatment, the types of postbiotics commonly utilized include CFS and heat-killed probiotics. […] In conclusion, investigating the potential applications of microbial preparations in the prevention and treatment of dental caries is an essential research avenue in the field of oral microbiology.
  • #75 How probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics prevent dental caries: an oral microbiota perspective | npj Biofilms and Microbiomes
    https://www.nature.com/articles/s41522-024-00488-7
    Probiotics activate or modulate the host immune system, thereby enhancing the immune response to cariogenic microorganisms. […] The combined use of probiotics and prebiotics has demonstrated superior therapeutic effects compared to their utilization. […] The term synbiotics was first coined in 1995 by Gibson et al. to describe the combination of probiotics and prebiotics. […] Postbiotics are considered superior to probiotics due to their good acid-base and thermal stability, ease of storage and use, and high safety. […] In the context of dental caries prevention and treatment, the types of postbiotics commonly utilized include CFS and heat-killed probiotics. […] In conclusion, investigating the potential applications of microbial preparations in the prevention and treatment of dental caries is an essential research avenue in the field of oral microbiology.
  • #76 Tooth Decay Prevention: 8 Daily Dental Care Tips
    https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/tooth-decay-prevention
    Tooth decay is the destruction of tooth structure and can affect both the enamel (the outer coating of the tooth) and the dentin layer of the tooth. […] Tooth decay occurs when foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches), such as breads, cereals, milk, soda, fruits, cakes, or candy are left on the teeth. Bacteria that live in the mouth digest these foods, turning them into acids. The bacteria, acid, food debris, and saliva combine to form plaque, which clings to the teeth. The acids in plaque dissolve the enamel surface of the teeth, creating holes in the teeth called cavities. […] Researchers are developing new means to prevent tooth decay. One study found that chewing gum that contains the sweetener xylitol temporarily retarded the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay. In addition, several materials that slowly release fluoride over time, which will help prevent further decay, are being explored. These materials would be placed between teeth or in pits and fissures of teeth. Toothpastes and mouth rinses that can reverse and „heal” early cavities are also being studied.
  • #77 Tooth Decay Prevention: 8 Daily Dental Care Tips
    https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/tooth-decay-prevention
    Tooth decay is the destruction of tooth structure and can affect both the enamel (the outer coating of the tooth) and the dentin layer of the tooth. […] Tooth decay occurs when foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches), such as breads, cereals, milk, soda, fruits, cakes, or candy are left on the teeth. Bacteria that live in the mouth digest these foods, turning them into acids. The bacteria, acid, food debris, and saliva combine to form plaque, which clings to the teeth. The acids in plaque dissolve the enamel surface of the teeth, creating holes in the teeth called cavities. […] Researchers are developing new means to prevent tooth decay. One study found that chewing gum that contains the sweetener xylitol temporarily retarded the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay. In addition, several materials that slowly release fluoride over time, which will help prevent further decay, are being explored. These materials would be placed between teeth or in pits and fissures of teeth. Toothpastes and mouth rinses that can reverse and „heal” early cavities are also being studied.
  • #78 CurodontTM Repair – vVARDIS Switzerland – Biomimetic Dental Science
    https://professional.vvardis.com/product/curodont-repair/
    The P11-4 Peptide technology diffuses into the depth of carious lesion within 5 minutes. […] The peptides self-assemble within the carious lesion, forming a biomatrix which attracts calcium and phosphate ions from the saliva. […] New hydroxyapatite crystals form around the biomatrix leading to the regeneration of the enamel. […] The progression of caries is arrested, the lesion regresses through regeneration of hydroxyapatite which continues over time. […] The treatment with Curodont Repair arrests and remineralizes to the depth of the lesion, and is safe, effective, well-received from patients. […] CurodontTM Repair employs the clinically proven and award-winning Monomer-Peptide 104 technology to bring about guided enamel regeneration within early, non-cavitated enamel lesions. […] Once inside and triggered by the acidic environment of carious lesions, the intelligent peptide monomers assemble to form a matrix, which resembles the natural enamel matrix.
  • #79 CurodontTM Repair – vVARDIS Switzerland – Biomimetic Dental Science
    https://professional.vvardis.com/product/curodont-repair/
    The P11-4 Peptide technology diffuses into the depth of carious lesion within 5 minutes. […] The peptides self-assemble within the carious lesion, forming a biomatrix which attracts calcium and phosphate ions from the saliva. […] New hydroxyapatite crystals form around the biomatrix leading to the regeneration of the enamel. […] The progression of caries is arrested, the lesion regresses through regeneration of hydroxyapatite which continues over time. […] The treatment with Curodont Repair arrests and remineralizes to the depth of the lesion, and is safe, effective, well-received from patients. […] CurodontTM Repair employs the clinically proven and award-winning Monomer-Peptide 104 technology to bring about guided enamel regeneration within early, non-cavitated enamel lesions. […] Once inside and triggered by the acidic environment of carious lesions, the intelligent peptide monomers assemble to form a matrix, which resembles the natural enamel matrix.
  • #80 What is the mechanism of Silver Diammine Fluoride?
    https://synapse.patsnap.com/article/what-is-the-mechanism-of-silver-diammine-fluoride
    Silver diammine fluoride (SDF) is a topical agent commonly used in dentistry to arrest and prevent dental caries. The mechanism by which SDF achieves its effects is multifaceted, involving various biological and chemical interactions. At its core, SDF is a compound composed of silver, ammonia, and fluoride ions. Each of these components plays a critical role in its mechanism of action. When applied to a decayed tooth, SDF works through several pathways: […] Silver ions in SDF possess potent antimicrobial properties. Upon application, these ions disrupt bacterial cell walls, interfere with metabolic pathways, and inhibit DNA replication. The broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity of silver helps to eliminate cariogenic bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans, which are primarily responsible for tooth decay.
  • #81 What is the mechanism of Silver Diammine Fluoride?
    https://synapse.patsnap.com/article/what-is-the-mechanism-of-silver-diammine-fluoride
    Silver diammine fluoride (SDF) is a topical agent commonly used in dentistry to arrest and prevent dental caries. The mechanism by which SDF achieves its effects is multifaceted, involving various biological and chemical interactions. At its core, SDF is a compound composed of silver, ammonia, and fluoride ions. Each of these components plays a critical role in its mechanism of action. When applied to a decayed tooth, SDF works through several pathways: […] Silver ions in SDF possess potent antimicrobial properties. Upon application, these ions disrupt bacterial cell walls, interfere with metabolic pathways, and inhibit DNA replication. The broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity of silver helps to eliminate cariogenic bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans, which are primarily responsible for tooth decay.
  • #82 What is the mechanism of Silver Diammine Fluoride?
    https://synapse.patsnap.com/article/what-is-the-mechanism-of-silver-diammine-fluoride
    Upon contact with dental tissues, SDF undergoes a reaction to form calcium fluoride (CaF2) and silver phosphate (Ag3PO4). Calcium fluoride acts as a fluoride reservoir, gradually releasing fluoride ions over time. These released fluoride ions enhance the remineralization process by aiding the deposition of minerals like calcium and phosphate back into the demineralized tooth structure. […] Fluoride ions from SDF integrate into the crystal lattice of the tooth enamel, forming fluorapatite, which is more resistant to acid dissolution than hydroxyapatite. This process effectively inhibits further demineralization of the tooth enamel and dentin, thereby arresting the progression of caries. […] The fluoride ions not only inhibit demineralization but also promote the remineralization of the tooth by attracting calcium and phosphate ions to the affected areas. This helps in the formation of a harder, more acid-resistant surface on the tooth.
  • #83 What is the mechanism of Silver Diammine Fluoride?
    https://synapse.patsnap.com/article/what-is-the-mechanism-of-silver-diammine-fluoride
    Silver ions react with the proteins in the decayed dentin to form a protective layer of silver-protein conjugates. This layer acts as a physical barrier, sealing off the dentinal tubules and preventing the ingress of cariogenic bacteria and their metabolic by-products. […] Silver ions also inhibit matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and other proteolytic enzymes that degrade the collagen matrix in dentin. By inhibiting these enzymes, SDF helps to preserve the structural integrity of the tooth. The multifactorial mechanism of SDF, combining antimicrobial, remineralizing, and protective actions, makes it an effective agent in managing dental caries.
  • #84 Researchers explain mechanism that makes their mouthwash so effective against tooth decay
    https://medicalxpress.com/news/2015-06-mechanism-mouthwash-effective-tooth.html
    In 2011, UCLA’s Dr. Wenyuan Shi developed a mouthwash that could eliminate the bacteria that is the principal cause of tooth decay. […] A new study led by Shi, chair of the section of oral biology at the UCLA School of Dentistry, describes more precisely the mechanism that makes the mouthwash’s active ingredient so effective. […] The research, published in the June issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, explains how a specifically targeted antimicrobial peptide, or STAMP, known as C16G2 works to eradicate only the harmful acid-producing Streptococcus mutans bacteria, the main cause of tooth decay, without disturbing the benign and beneficial bacteria in the mouth. […] The finding is a critical advance because, as scientists have understood for about two decades, the vast majority of bacterial cells in the human mouth are not harmful to our health.
  • #85 Researchers explain mechanism that makes their mouthwash so effective against tooth decay
    https://medicalxpress.com/news/2015-06-mechanism-mouthwash-effective-tooth.html
    In 2011, UCLA’s Dr. Wenyuan Shi developed a mouthwash that could eliminate the bacteria that is the principal cause of tooth decay. […] A new study led by Shi, chair of the section of oral biology at the UCLA School of Dentistry, describes more precisely the mechanism that makes the mouthwash’s active ingredient so effective. […] The research, published in the June issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, explains how a specifically targeted antimicrobial peptide, or STAMP, known as C16G2 works to eradicate only the harmful acid-producing Streptococcus mutans bacteria, the main cause of tooth decay, without disturbing the benign and beneficial bacteria in the mouth. […] The finding is a critical advance because, as scientists have understood for about two decades, the vast majority of bacterial cells in the human mouth are not harmful to our health.
  • #86 Researchers explain mechanism that makes their mouthwash so effective against tooth decay
    https://medicalxpress.com/news/2015-06-mechanism-mouthwash-effective-tooth.html
    Shi said the STAMP approach would be a unique solution for re-engineering the mouth’s microbiome for long-term health. […] Because of how the STAMP strategy works, Shi said scientists might also be able to use it to treat and prevent other microbiome-related diseases—meaning it could have an impact far beyond dentistry. […] „This is a truly momentous discovery that provides proof-of-concept on re-engineering human microbiome for treatment and prevention of diseases,” Shi said. „It demonstrates that this targeted approach actually works and that it is an incredibly powerful tool that can be used to manipulate our microbiomes, and to identify and study the ecological functions of the cornerstone species within the community.”
  • #87 Researchers explain mechanism that makes their mouthwash so effective against tooth decay
    https://medicalxpress.com/news/2015-06-mechanism-mouthwash-effective-tooth.html
    Shi said the STAMP approach would be a unique solution for re-engineering the mouth’s microbiome for long-term health. […] Because of how the STAMP strategy works, Shi said scientists might also be able to use it to treat and prevent other microbiome-related diseases—meaning it could have an impact far beyond dentistry. […] „This is a truly momentous discovery that provides proof-of-concept on re-engineering human microbiome for treatment and prevention of diseases,” Shi said. „It demonstrates that this targeted approach actually works and that it is an incredibly powerful tool that can be used to manipulate our microbiomes, and to identify and study the ecological functions of the cornerstone species within the community.”
  • #88 The Importance of Tooth Decay Treatment – Stiles Dental Care
    https://www.medfordsmiles.com/2024/01/the-importance-of-tooth-decay-treatment/
    Early diagnosis of tooth decay is crucial for effective treatment. Identifying initial symptoms, such as tooth sensitivity or minor discoloration, can prevent the condition from worsening. […] When tooth decay progresses, various treatment options become necessary to address the issue. Non-invasive treatments like enough fluoride application and regular saliva flow improvement can help in the early stages. […] Preventing tooth decay through non-invasive treatments is crucial for maintaining oral health. Applying fluoride varnish can effectively reverse early tooth decay, while dental sealants form a protective shield against cavities. […] When tooth decay advances, invasive treatments become necessary. Root canal treatment is often the solution for advanced decay, preserving the natural tooth.
  • #89 Dental Caries – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551699/
    The outer layer consists of the necrotic zone and contaminated zone containing microbial biofilm, which can be appreciated clinically as soft mineralized tissue of the tooth. […] The first clinical sign of the disease is a white spot, which is the expression of the enamel subsurface demineralization – the surface enamel is more mineralized. […] As the caries process progresses, the dentin also experiences mineral loss and bacterial invasion, producing tertiary dentin to protect the pulp. […] The management of dental caries should be aimed at detecting initial lesions, determining caries activity, performing a caries risk assessment, preventing new carious lesions, preserving dental tissue, and maintaining teeth for as long as possible. […] Existing caries should be initially managed by non-invasive procedures (e.g., remineralization, biofilm removal, sealing) instead of removing dental tissue. […] If plaque control measures are performed, the lesion can regress without the need for invasive intervention.
  • #90 Dental Caries – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551699/
    The outer layer consists of the necrotic zone and contaminated zone containing microbial biofilm, which can be appreciated clinically as soft mineralized tissue of the tooth. […] The first clinical sign of the disease is a white spot, which is the expression of the enamel subsurface demineralization – the surface enamel is more mineralized. […] As the caries process progresses, the dentin also experiences mineral loss and bacterial invasion, producing tertiary dentin to protect the pulp. […] The management of dental caries should be aimed at detecting initial lesions, determining caries activity, performing a caries risk assessment, preventing new carious lesions, preserving dental tissue, and maintaining teeth for as long as possible. […] Existing caries should be initially managed by non-invasive procedures (e.g., remineralization, biofilm removal, sealing) instead of removing dental tissue. […] If plaque control measures are performed, the lesion can regress without the need for invasive intervention.
  • #91 Dental Caries – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551699/
    The outer layer consists of the necrotic zone and contaminated zone containing microbial biofilm, which can be appreciated clinically as soft mineralized tissue of the tooth. […] The first clinical sign of the disease is a white spot, which is the expression of the enamel subsurface demineralization – the surface enamel is more mineralized. […] As the caries process progresses, the dentin also experiences mineral loss and bacterial invasion, producing tertiary dentin to protect the pulp. […] The management of dental caries should be aimed at detecting initial lesions, determining caries activity, performing a caries risk assessment, preventing new carious lesions, preserving dental tissue, and maintaining teeth for as long as possible. […] Existing caries should be initially managed by non-invasive procedures (e.g., remineralization, biofilm removal, sealing) instead of removing dental tissue. […] If plaque control measures are performed, the lesion can regress without the need for invasive intervention.
  • #92 Caries – Dental Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/dental-disorders/common-dental-disorders/caries
    Treatment of incipient caries confined to the enamel may be attempted with remineralization through improved home care (brushing and flossing), cleanings, prescriptions for high-fluoride toothpastes, and multiple fluoride applications at the dental office. Treatments of caries that have entered the dentin involve drilling out the decayed area and restoring the defect with amalgam, composite resin, or glass ionomer.
  • #93 Caries – Dental Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/dental-disorders/common-dental-disorders/caries
    Treatment of incipient caries confined to the enamel may be attempted with remineralization through improved home care (brushing and flossing), cleanings, prescriptions for high-fluoride toothpastes, and multiple fluoride applications at the dental office. Treatments of caries that have entered the dentin involve drilling out the decayed area and restoring the defect with amalgam, composite resin, or glass ionomer.
  • #94 How Can We Better Prevent Tooth Decay? | UCSF Magazine
    https://magazine.ucsf.edu/how-can-we-better-prevent-tooth-decay
    What causes tooth decay? The human mouth contains bacteria that feed on the fermentable carbohydrates we ingest. They produce acid, the acid dissolves our tooth enamel, and we end up with dental caries, which is the scientific name for cavities. Multiple species of bacteria at least 10 and maybe more contribute to dental caries. […] Forty-two years ago, I started trying to unravel the basic mechanism of how and why decay occurs in the mouth. […] CAMBRA which stands for Caries Management by Risk Assessment is a philosophy of preventive dentistry that precisely assesses the risk of decay and addresses it with treatments and therapies calibrated to the risk level. […] Compromised saliva flow. Saliva, the fluid in your mouth, can be a bit of a nuisance, but its essential. It keeps your mouth moist, it has antibacterial properties, it repairs tooth decay, and it protects against gum disease.
  • #95 How Can We Better Prevent Tooth Decay? | UCSF Magazine
    https://magazine.ucsf.edu/how-can-we-better-prevent-tooth-decay
    In those at extreme risk, you can basically guarantee theyre going to have new decay in the very near future, sometimes within six months. […] We recommend using a prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste with five times the fluoride concentration of regular over-the-counter toothpaste. Yet in high-risk patients, the challenge is so great that fluoride alone wont take care of it, so we also use an antibacterial called chlorhexidine. […] Many people take medication for various health issues that dry up their saliva and put them at great risk for dental decay.
  • #96 Pathogenesis of dental caries | PPT
    https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/pathogenesis-of-dental-caries/13727902
    Role of acid: mere presence of acid is of less significance; acidic saliva causes tooth decay. […] The plaque per se is not pathogenic, but the presence of pathogenic species within the plaque causes dental caries. […] Initiation of caries occurs at pH 5.2 – 5.5; At 5.5 pH, saliva ceases to be saturated with calcium and phosphate leading to the dissolution of inorganic components of tooth. […] The caries process is dynamic and influenced by many factors, including biofilm formation, diet, and saliva. […] Current concept of caries etiology implies interplay of host, microbial floras, substrate and time as the principle factors.