Dental Caries & Studies

Which of the following best defines dental caries?

• A reversible lesion affecting the hard tissues of the teeth

• A dynamic process involving demineralization and remineralization of the tooth surface

• The erosion of enamel due to mechanical abrasion

• Inflammation of the periodontal ligament

Which equation accurately represents the balance between demineralization and remineralization in dental caries?

• (pH < 5.5) → Ca²⁺ + PO₄³⁻ → Hydroxyapatite

• Demineralization Rate = Acidogenic bacteria × Sugar concentration

• Demineralization Rate = Frequency of sugar exposure × Enamel porosity

• Remineralization Rate = Fluoride + Ca²⁺/PO₄³⁻ availability

In Stephan's curve, what is the primary factor responsible for the critical pH drop?

• Salivary flow rate

• Salivary buffering capacity

• Sugar intake and bacterial metabolism

• Oral temperature

The critical pH for demineralization of enamel is considered to be approximately:

• 4.5

• 5.5

• 6.5

• 7.5

What type of sugar is most cariogenic as per controlled dietary studies?

• Glucose

• Lactose

• Fructose

• Sucrose

According to Stephan’s curve, what duration is typically required for pH to return to normal after a cariogenic challenge?

• 5 minutes

• 20 minutes

• 40 minutes

• 60 minutes

In controlled dietary studies, which of the following factors showed a direct correlation with caries activity?

• Total daily caloric intake

• Daily protein consumption

• Frequency of sugar consumption

• Intake of dietary fiber

Which of the following statements is true about classification of sugars in relation to dental caries?

• Extrinsic sugars are more cariogenic than intrinsic sugars

• Polyols like sorbitol are more cariogenic than sucrose

• Intrinsic sugars are more cariogenic than extrinsic sugars

• Fructose is more cariogenic than sucrose

What does Stephan's curve primarily illustrate?

• Variations in salivary flow

• Changes in enamel porosity over time

• Changes in plaque pH following sugar intake

• Progression of enamel demineralization

The key endpoint in controlled dietary studies on dental caries is:

• Measurement of demineralization in enamel lesions

• Quantification of fluoride levels in saliva

• pH measurement in gingival crevices

• Analysis of bacterial colony-forming units