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Biochemical Events in Dental Plaque

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Dental Caries

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Abstract

The objective of this chapter is to outline the significance of some of the biochemical processes of dental plaque. Energy metabolism is of central importance for bacteria, which are able to use various materials as energy sources, and produce characteristic end-products from them. The impact of these end-products, and also materials produced by extracellular hydrolyses and decarboxylations, are briefly described together with the role of salivary buffers, and the consumption of a strong acid in plaque. Reference is made to the unlikely role of complexing agents in the dissolution of enamel mineral.

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Authors
  1. L. M. Silverstone
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  2. N. W. Johnson
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  3. J. M. Hardie
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  4. R. A. D. Williams
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© 1981 L. M. Silverstone, N. W. Johnson, J. M. Hardie and R. A. D. Williams

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Silverstone, L.M., Johnson, N.W., Hardie, J.M., Williams, R.A.D. (1981). Biochemical Events in Dental Plaque. In: Dental Caries. Palgrave, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-349-16547-6_5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-349-16547-6_5

  • Publisher Name: Palgrave, London

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