sftd4 Download single image for 35mm slide. Download single PowerPoint screen.	In the most simple terms, the process of dental caries can be illustrated by this Venn diagram: Susceptible tooth Presence of bacteria Access to fermentable carbohydrates and cooked starches Time Bacteria use dietary fermentable carbohydrates (principally sugars and cooked starches) as a substrate for acid production, resulting in a lowering of the pH of the area. Species of Streptococcus and Lactobacillus are most often implicated in the caries process.
sftd5 Download single image for 35mm slide. Download single PowerPoint screen.	Streptococcus mutans do not appear as an oral microbe in the infant until primary teeth erupt. Acquisition of S. mutans appears to take place through mouth-to-mouth transmission between caretaker and child. Transmission can be delayed/prevented by the initiation of a prevention program including meticulous oral hygiene, especially in caretakers who demonstrate a high-risk level of S. mutans. (Photo: mother to child transmission)
sftd6 Download single image for 35mm slide. Download single PowerPoint screen.	The Caries Process Enamel is composed of mineralized crystals in an organic matrix. This unique structure provides channels through which minerals, such as calcium and fluoride, and acids can flow. We no longer think of dental caries as a simple, uncontrollable, linear progression from acid demineralization to a frank clinical lesion. We now believe the caries process is dynamic and involves demineralization and remineralization. (Photo: enamel crystals in an organic matrix)