Dental caries and tooth surface loss quiz

What is the definition of dental caries?

disease of the mineralised portion of the tooth

List the 3 main pathogens in dental plaque which cause dental caries

• streptococcus mutans

• streptococcus sobrinus

• lactobacillus

Molecular biological studies have shown over how many different species of oral bacteria may have been identified?

700+

host factors can be referred to as susceptible tooth surface, name 3 examples?

• deep fissures

• carious cavities

• imbricated (crowding) teeth

  • poor fitting crowns, bridges and dentures

What are the macros that influence dental caries? (4)

• time

• fermentable carbs/diet

• host factors/ susceptible tooth surface

• microorganisms

identify the resting pH of dental plaque (1)

pH 6.5-7

name the curve which represents pH level with the oral cavity

stephans curve

List the 5 stages of dental caries (5)

• white spot lesions

• decay in enamel

• progression to dentine

• progression to pulp

• formation of an abscess

when demineralisation occurs what is the body’s natural response to combat it? (1)

remineralisation

As a lesion progresses to the dentine, the enamel surface collapses, describe what happens when caries reaches the dentine. (4)

• change from hard to a softer surface

• dentine becomes exposed leaving an open carious cavity

• issues with plaque retention which may speed up the process

• colour becomes more brown

What is pulpitis?

inflammation of the pulp

with pulpits identify 2 ways the patient may NOT experience pain? (2)

• pain on biting

• pain on percussion

although the patient with pulpits would experience pain if they are introduced to what?

thermal response (hot or cold)- although once the stimulus is removed the pain subsides

is pulpitis reversible?

with treatment it is reversible

Accumulation of dead cells in an enclosed area results in greater tissue destruction, although what is the substance called that creates a peri-apical abscess?

suppuration

List 4 symptoms of an acute abscess

• severe throbbing pain

• patient can easily locate the tooth

• sensitive to biting

• sensitive to percussion

• tooth is usually elevated in the socket

• increased mobility & additional pain due to premature occlusion

• periodical abscess will give a negative response to electoral or thermal pulp testing

With a chronic abscess name the ‘hole’ where pus drainage occurs from (1)

sinus

List 2 of the symptoms a patient would complain of with a chronic abscess

• mild intermittent pain

• pain of varying intensity

• pain which is difficult to localise

• pain which is induced by thermal change or sweet liquid or solids

Name the 3 types of tooth surface loss

erosion, attrition, abrasion

identify 4 main causes of erosion

• bulimia or anorexia

• gastric reflux

• people who work in hazardous environments

• people who consume excessive carbonated soft drinks or fruit juices

Where is erosion usually seen?

on the palatal aspect of the maxillary incisors

Name 3 causes of attrition

• bruxism

• loss of several posterior teeth

• developmental disturbances of the tooth structure

indicate where you would usually see abrasion (3)

labial/buccal surfaces of maxillary incisors, canines and premolars

what is the most common cause of tooth abrasion?

over zealous brushing or abrasive toothpaste

identify what abrasion can progress to and how does it appear?

• abfraction

• deep shaped wedges