Bacteria are microscopic organisms that are a part of everyone's daily life, and they serve an important role in our body's ability to function and survive. Some bacteria are more beneficial to the human body than others. The mouth is natural haven for bacteria, both good and bad. The environment of the mouth, or oral cavity, can be influenced positively or negatively, resulting in cavities by the amount and type of bacteria present.
Environment of the Oral Cavity
The oral cavity's environment changes several times per day depending on the foods and drinks you consume, stressful situations and your overall systemic health. The pH, a measure of acidity, of the mouth determines if the tooth structure will be broken down. The saliva inside of your mouth contain ions, such as calcium and phosphorus, that maintain your teeth in a mineralized state with a pH of 6.8 that does not promote the breakdown of tooth structure. When you consume acidic foods or sugary drinks, the pH of the mouth decreases to 5.5, resulting in a demineralized state that can lead to the breakdown of tooth structure.
Bacteria
There are hundreds of different bacteria species present in the oral cavity. Some species can cause the pH to decrease to 5.5 or below. Lactobacillus acidophilus is a bacterium that has been found in milk and other dairy products. Lactobacillus acidophilus can produce acids in the mouth and continue to survive in the newly formed acidic environment, increasing the probability of tooth breakdown by dissolving the outer enamel surface of the tooth.
Formation of Cavities
Cavities are formed when the following risk factors are present simultaneously: bacteria that cause cavities, sugary or acidic food and drinks and a tooth. The primary bacteria that is responsible for the initiation of cavities is streptococcus mutans. This bacteria in addition to lactobacillus can produce acids that decrease the pH of the oral cavity. Regular brushing and flossing will mechanically interrupt the bacteria from dissolving the enamel and causing a hole, or cavity, in your tooth.
Treatment for Cavities
Once a cavity has formed, it must be removed promptly. The most conventional way to remove a cavity is to use a dental drill or dental laser in addition to the placement of a filling. If the bacteria inside a cavity are allowed to remain for an extended amount of time, the cavity will become larger and the tooth may require more complicated procedures to restore it to a functional state with the rest of your teeth.
References
- "Contemporary Implant Dentistry, 3rd Edition"; Carl Misch; 2007
- "Mosby's Dental Dictionary, 2nd Edition"; Thomas Zwemer; 2003
- "Sturdevant's Art and Science of Operative Dentistry, 5th Edition"; Theodore Roberson; 2006
- "Dentistry, Dental Practice, and the Community, 6th Edition"; Brian A. Burt; 2005
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