13. Dental and Orofacial Pathology

Caries is an infectious disease (Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus, Actinomyces, etc.) that causes demineralization of hard dental tissues (enamel, dentin, and cementum). Four factors are necessary for the formation of caries: a tooth surface, bacteria in a biofilm called plaque, carbohydrates, and time. Under healthy oral conditions, there is a balance between demineralization through plaque and remineralization through saliva or fluoridated toothpaste. Poor oral hygiene or excessive consumption of sugar or acidic foods will shift this balance. In addition, some diseases (especially autoimmune connective tissue disorders) and medications (tricyclic antidepressants, antihypertensive agents, antiallergy drugs, etc.) predispose patients to develop caries because the flow of saliva is reduced.