The Evolving Microbiome of Dental Caries
Middlebury College · Cornell University · +1 more institution
Abstract
Dental caries is a significant oral and public health problem worldwide, especially in low-income populations. The risk of dental caries increases with frequent intake of dietary carbohydrates, including sugars, leading to increased acidity and disruption of the symbiotic diverse and complex microbial community of health. Excess acid production leads to a dysbiotic shift in the bacterial biofilm composition, demineralization of tooth structure, and cavities. Highly acidic and acid-tolerant species associated with caries include Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus, Actinomyces, Bifidobacterium, and Scardovia species. The differences in microbiotas depend on tooth site, extent of carious lesions, and rate of…
Citation impact
- FWCI
- 79.94
- Percentile
- 100%
- References
- 346
Authors
5Topics & keywords
- Streptococcus mutans
- Microbiome
- Oral Microbiome
- Actinomyces
- Biofilm
- Dental plaque
- Lactobacillus
- Medicine