Abstract

A hydrogel with an organised structure and function is dental plaque. Plaque contains a diverse microbiological composition and forms in an organised manner. In good health, it holds steady throughout time. Despite the fact that the suspected pathogens are frequently found at normal sites in small amounts, the dominant species from diseased sites differ from those found in healthy areas. Even if additional species with important features may be implicated, acid-genic and acid-tolerating species like mutans streptococci and lactobacilli are shifting toward community dominance in dental caries. Inhibiting the growth of hydrogel or bolstering the host defence are two potential caries control strategies. These
more traditional methods may also be strengthened by interfering with the variables that allow cariogenic bacteria to bypass the usual homeostatic controls that limit their growth in plaque and outcompete species linked to health. It appears that lactobacilli and mutans streptococci are favourably selected for in plaque under normal low pH settings. As a result, maintaining plaque homeostasis may be helped by the use of metabolic inhibitors and non-fermentable artificial sweeteners in snacks, as well as by stimulating salivation. These strategies reduce the catabolism of sugar and the generation of acids. Arguments will be made in favour of adopting a more comprehensive strategy for caries reduction
by having an understanding of ecological principles.