Overview
Dental caries (tooth decay) is the most prevalent chronic disease worldwide, driven by acid-producing biofilm bacteria — primarily Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus species — that demineralize tooth enamel. In the WikiBiome framework, dental caries connects to the oral-systemic axis: cariogenic bacteria and their metabolic products enter the systemic circulation, and conditions like GERD alter oral pH to promote caries lechien 2020 laryngopharyngeal reflux dental disorders systematic review.
Metal Connection
- Zinc: Zinc-containing oral hygiene agents inhibit S. mutans biofilm formation and acid production — a metal-dependent antimicrobial strategy katrak 2026 oral hygiene agents streptococcus mutans zinc.
- Fluoride: Fluorapatite formation protects enamel; fluoride also inhibits bacterial enolase (a metalloenzyme).
Oral-Gut Interactions
- Oral and gut microbiota show correlated dysbiosis patterns in cerebral palsy and epilepsy huang 2022 oral gut microbiota cpe correlations.
- Cariogenic Lactobacillus species may also affect thyroid health via oral-gut translocation harbi 2024 lactobacillus candida thyroid disorders.
Cross-References
- periodontitis — related oral disease (different pathobionts)
- biofilm — cariogenic biofilm (dental plaque)
- zinc — zinc-based anticariogenic agents
- porphyromonas gingivalis — periodontal pathogen (distinct from cariogenic bacteria)