For a substance to be cariogenic, it is most likely to...

For a substance to be cariogenic, it is most likely to...

• A. Contain intrinsic vitamins
• B. Contain extrinsic free sugars
• C. Contain calcium phosphate
• D. Contain probiotics

Answer: (B)

For a substance to be cariogenic, it is most likely to contain extrinsic free sugars. The reason any substance is considered cariogenic is its potential to cause dental caries, which are essentially cavities. Free sugars are easily fermentable by the bacteria in the dental plaque, leading to the production of acids that can demineralize tooth enamel. When sugars are consumed, they interact with the plaque biofilm on the teeth, resulting in acid production that can lower the pH in the oral environment, creating conditions conducive to tooth decay. This process highlights the role of diet in dental health, particularly the impact of sugary substances. The other options, while they may have health benefits, do not directly contribute to the cariogenic process. For example, intrinsic vitamins and calcium phosphate can aid in maintaining oral health and remineralizing enamel, while probiotics are known to support beneficial bacteria in the mouth that can help inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria associated with caries.

For a substance to be cariogenic, it is most likely to contain extrinsic free sugars. The reason any substance is considered cariogenic is its potential to cause dental caries, which are essentially cavities. Free sugars are easily fermentable by the bacteria in the dental plaque, leading to the production of acids that can demineralize tooth enamel.

When sugars are consumed, they interact with the plaque biofilm on the teeth, resulting in acid production that can lower the pH in the oral environment, creating conditions conducive to tooth decay. This process highlights the role of diet in dental health, particularly the impact of sugary substances.

The other options, while they may have health benefits, do not directly contribute to the cariogenic process. For example, intrinsic vitamins and calcium phosphate can aid in maintaining oral health and remineralizing enamel, while probiotics are known to support beneficial bacteria in the mouth that can help inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria associated with caries.