Etiology of Dental Caries Overview

A protective layer consisting of salivary glycoproteins that forms on the tooth surface, providing a foundation for biofilm formation.

The initial stage of biofilm formation, where planktonic bacteria adhere to the acquired pellicle.

The accumulation of microorganisms, creating a structured community with a distinct three-dimensional form.

The process of increasing microbial diversity within the biofilm, leading to a more complex ecosystem.

A mature biofilm with a stable structure and a dynamic interplay between its various components.

A theory that proposes that changes in the composition and balance of plaque bacteria, caused by environmental factors, contribute to the development of dental caries.

A major player in biofilm formation due to its ability to adhere to surfaces, synthesize sugar-like substances, and tolerate acidic environments.

The first layer of enamel deposited before the tooth erupts, formed by ameloblasts.

For permanent dentition: 16V, 11V, 26V, 46L, 31V, 36L. For deciduous dentition: 55V, 51V, 65V, 85L, 71V, 75L.

Code 0: No staining or plaque present. Code 1: Stained plaque covers up to 1/3 of the tooth surface. Code 2: Stained plaque covers between 1/3 and 2/3 of the tooth surface. Code 3: Stained plaque covers more than 2/3 of the tooth surface.

It measures the amount of plaque present on the teeth.

True. Methylene blue is used to stain the plaque, making it easier to see.

True. It evaluates the plaque presence on the gingival areas of all four surfaces of each tooth.

False. The probe is used to gently slide along the tooth surface, not into the gingival sulcus, to determine the presence or absence of plaque.

False. The evaluation codes range from 0 to 3.

The artificial bristles are rounded to prevent damage to the gingiva and enamel.

The concentration of ions, temperature, and the presence of other substances can influence the solubility of a compound.

The presence of fluoride ions can lead to the formation of fluorohydroxyapatite (FHA) or fluorapatite (FA) in the presence of calcium and phosphate ions. These fluoridated forms are more resistant to demineralization than hydroxyapatite.

Fluorapatite (FA) has the lowest solubility among the common apatite forms in enamel. This means it is the least likely to dissolve in acidic conditions.

The presence of carbonate ions in the crystal lattice can lead to the formation of carbonapatite. This form is more soluble than hydroxyapatite, making it more susceptible to demineralization.

Hydroxyapatite is the most abundant apatite form found in enamel. It is the main mineral constituent of tooth enamel.

Remineralization is the process of rebuilding lost minerals in tooth enamel. It occurs naturally in the mouth under favorable conditions.

The main components of hydroxyapatite include calcium (Ca), phosphate (PO4), and hydroxide (OH). Other elements can occasionally be present, such as sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), potassium (K), and strontium (Sr) in place of calcium and fluoride (F) or carbonate (CO3) for the hydroxide.

Tooth enamel is composed of different types of apatites, including hydroxyapatite, fluorapatite, and carbonapatite. Their relative proportions influence the strength and resistance to demineralization.

The process of applying a protective sealant material to the occlusal pits and fissures of teeth to prevent the development of caries.

They are the grooves and depressions on the chewing surfaces of teeth, particularly molars and premolars.

They are the main entry points for bacteria and food particles. They are also areas where plaque accumulates easily due to their complex morphology.

A sealant material should be able to bond strongly to the tooth surface, preventing bacteria and food from entering the pit and fissure.

The sealant material should not be affected by the moist environment of the mouth and should be resistant to wear and tear.

Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks.

Fluorides are the most commonly used chemicals for caries prevention. They are incorporated into tooth enamel during its development and strengthen it against acid attacks.

The process of applying a protective plastic coating to the chewing surfaces of teeth to prevent cavities. Sealants are most effective when applied to newly erupted teeth with deep grooves and pits.

When the sealant doesn't adhere properly to the tooth surface, leading to gaps or spaces where bacteria can build up.

The sealant can be applied over an existing cavity, which can result in the cavity getting worse.

Improper etching and drying of the tooth surface can result in the sealant not adhering properly.

Saliva contamination during the sealant application process can weaken the bond between the sealant and the tooth.

This involves the use of minerals like calcium and phosphate to strengthen the tooth enamel and prevent cavities.

These agents help to strengthen tooth enamel and are used to help stop cavities from getting worse.

Remineralizing agents are not used to remove stains from enamel.

Factors influencing the likelihood of developing dental caries. These include: risk factors, protective factors, and factors that can act as both depending on their quantity.

Factors that increase the likelihood of developing periodontal disease. These include: genetic predisposition, certain medications, metabolic conditions, and specific medical problems.

Factors that arise as a result of initial damage to the gum tissues. These include: false gingival pockets, compromised attachment, and gingival bleeding.

The three main types of periodontal disease risk assessment systems are: systems for public or group application, systems for individual assessment in oral health, and systems for diagnosing and treating children with periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease risk assessment is evaluated at four levels: patient level, oral environment level, tooth or group of teeth level, and microenvironment level.

The three main oral risk factors for developing oral health problems are: caries-specific factors, factors specific to periodontal diseases, and common factors like biofilm and saliva.

According to the WHO, a preventive program should include: health education, early detection and prevention, access to preventive services, comprehensive oral health care, oral health promotion at the community level, and oral health policies.

The specific factors that increase the risk of developing a particular oral disease are called disease-specific factors. These are distinct from general oral risk factors.