New directions in the etiology of dental caries disease

J Calif Dent Assoc. 2011 Oct;39(10):716-21.

Abstract

This review explores the multifactorial etiology of dental caries disease. Current theories suggest that a singular focus on mutans streptococci and lactobacillus as the sole causative microbiological agents is no longer a viable strategy in treatment of this prevalent disease. Dental caries is an infectious transmissible disease process where a cariogenic biofilm in the presence of an oral status that is more pathological than protective leads to the demineralization of dental hard tissue.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bacterial Load
  • Biofilms
  • Coinfection / microbiology
  • Dental Caries / etiology*
  • Dental Caries / microbiology
  • Humans
  • Lactobacillus / physiology
  • Metagenome / physiology
  • Saliva / physiology
  • Streptococcus mutans / physiology