In tooth: Diseases of teeth and gums …of a yellowish film called plaque on teeth, which tends to harbour bacteria. The bacteria that live on plaque ferment the sugar and starchy-food debris found there into acids that destroy the tooth’s enamel and dentine by removing the calcium and other minerals from them. Caries usually commences on surface… Read More
In nutritional disease: Tooth decay Dental plaque (not to be confused with the lipid-containing plaque found in arteries) is a mass of bacteria and sticky polymers that shield the tooth from saliva and the tongue, thereby facilitating decay. All dietary forms of sugar, including honey, molasses, brown sugar, and corn syrup,… Read More
gingivitis
In gingivitis …is the accumulation of dental plaque on exposed tooth surfaces. The form of gingivitis known as trench mouth (Vincent’s gingivitis) is believed to be caused by a spirochete, Borrelia, and a bacterium, Fusobacterium, acting in symbiosis on previously weakened gum tissue. General infections, poor tooth alignment (malocclusion), poor dental hygiene,… Read More
periodontitis
In periodontitis …with the deposition of bacterial plaque on the teeth below the gum line, irritating and eroding the neighbouring tissues. At this state, the condition is reversible, but left untreated the inflamed margin of the gum begins to recede, exposing the roots of the teeth; eventually the alveolar bone that anchors… Read More
