Dental caries

High school (ages 12+)
Human Body

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/dental-caries

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What are dental caries and why do they happen?Dental caries are tiny holes in teeth that form when bacteria eat sugar and produce acid. The acid wears away the tooth’s hard outer layer, creating a cavity.
2. Which bacteria are the main culprits behind cavities?The main bacteria are Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus. They stick to teeth, make sticky plaque, and turn sugar into acid.

Dental Plaque: A sticky, colorless film of bacteria and food debris that constantly forms on teeth.
Demineralization/Remineralization Cycle: The continuous process of mineral loss from and gain to tooth enamel, influenced by pH and fluoride.
Biomaterials: Materials used in dentistry that interact with biological systems, often designed to promote healing or remineralization.