Figure 4 | International Journal of Oral Science

Figure 4

From: Progress toward understanding the contribution of alkali generation in dental biofilms to inhibition of dental caries

Figure 4

The role of alkali generation in caries prevention. Dental biofilms in a healthy host displays a balance in pH and microflora conducive to a favorable demineralization/remineralization dynamic. With repeated acidification and exposure to other stresses, a shift in the composition and biochemical activities of the microflora creates conditions where demineralization is favored over remineralization, allowing for the initiation and/or progression of a caries lesion. Alkali generation by oral biofilm bacteria directly impacts plaque pH while preventing the emergence of a cariogenic microflora.

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