Causes and control of dental caries
1987
Shaw, J.H.
Dental caries is a chronic infectious disease in which the active agent or agents are members of the indigenous oral flora, specifically Streptococcus mutans and S. sanguis. Carious lesions result primarily from dissolution of mineral in enamel and dentin by microorganisms colonizing on the tooth surface. Some studies indicate that genetics may be a factor in susceptibility to caries in humans and laboratory animals. At present, no single procedure has been shown to prevent the initiation and progression of all carious lesions. However, optimal oral hygiene is considered the best hope of reducing dental plaque and fluoridation of public water supplies is considered the most cost-effective method for reducing dental caries. Modification of food habits may be considered as another method of plaque control.
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