Lab: Dental Carries

Question 1

What bacterium is responsible for dental caries?

Answer 1

Lactobacillus acidophilus

Lactobacillus acidophilus produces lactic acid when fermenting glucose, which can lead to tooth decay.

Question 2

What is the significance of lactic acid production by Lactobacillus acidophilus?

Answer 2

It lowers the oral pH to less than 5, dissolving tooth enamel

This acid production is a major factor in the development of dental caries.

Question 3

What medium is used to detect the presence of Lactobacillus in saliva?

Answer 3

Snyder Test Medium

Snyder agar is specifically designed to identify Lactobacillus species in oral samples.

Question 4

What pH indicator is used in Snyder agar?

Answer 4

Bromcresol green

Bromcresol green changes color at pH 4.8, indicating acid production.

Question 5

What color does bromcresol green turn below pH 4.8?

Answer 5

Yellow

This color change indicates a drop in pH due to acid production.

Question 6

What is the procedure for collecting saliva for the Snyder test?

Answer 6

Chew paraffin for 3 minutes and collect saliva in a sterile test tube

This initial step is crucial for obtaining a sample for testing.

Question 7

What should be done with the saliva sample after collection?

Answer 7

Transfer 0.2 ml of saliva to a test tube of liquid Snyder agar and incubate

The incubation process allows for the growth of Lactobacillus if present.

Question 8

At what temperature should the Snyder agar be incubated?

Answer 8

37°C

This is the optimal temperature for bacterial growth.

Question 9

What observations should be made at 24, 48, and 72 hours post incubation?

Answer 9

Determine susceptibility to tooth decay based on color change in the agar

The presence of yellow indicates a positive result for Lactobacillus.

Question 10

What are the possible results for caries activity after 24 hours?

Answer 10

Marked, Moderate, Slight, Negative

These categories indicate varying levels of susceptibility to tooth decay.

Question 11

What conclusion should be drawn regarding the differential nature of Snyder agar?

Answer 11

It differentiates between Lactobacillus species based on acid production

This is essential for understanding its role in dental health.

Question 12

What should be included in the laboratory notebook after the experiment?

Answer 12

Conclusion regarding differential nature of Snyder agar and results consistency with dental history

Documenting these conclusions helps in understanding personal dental health.

Question 13

What are dental caries?

Answer 13

Dental caries are cavities or decay in the teeth caused by the demineralization of tooth structure.

Question 14

True or False: Dental caries are only a cosmetic issue.

Answer 14

False: Dental caries can lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss.

Question 15

Fill in the blank: The primary cause of dental caries is ______.

Answer 15

bacteria.

Question 16

What role do sugars play in the development of dental caries?

Answer 16

Sugars feed bacteria in the mouth, leading to acid production that erodes tooth enamel.

Question 17

Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a common symptom of dental caries? A) Tooth sensitivity B) Increased appetite C) Headaches

Answer 17

A) Tooth sensitivity

Question 18

What is the process by which bacteria convert sugars into acid?

Answer 18

Fermentation.

Question 19

True or False: Only children can develop dental caries.

Answer 19

False: Adults can also develop dental caries.

Question 20

What is the primary preventive measure against dental caries?

Answer 20

Regular brushing and flossing of teeth.

Question 21

Fill in the blank: Regular dental ______ can help detect and prevent caries.

Answer 21

check-ups.

Question 22

Multiple Choice: Which mineral is essential for repairing tooth enamel? A) Calcium B) Iron C) Potassium

Answer 22

A) Calcium

Question 23

What is the term for the soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth?

Answer 23

Plaque.

Question 24

True or False: Dental caries can be reversed in their early stages.

Answer 24

True: Early-stage caries can be remineralized.

Question 25

What is the impact of fluoride on dental caries?

Answer 25

Fluoride helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay.

Question 26

Fill in the blank: ______ is a common treatment for advanced dental caries.

Answer 26

Root canal therapy.

Question 27

Multiple Choice: What can excessive consumption of soda lead to? A) Improved dental health B) Dental caries C) Stronger teeth

Answer 27

B) Dental caries

Question 28

What demographic is at higher risk for dental caries?

Answer 28

Children and adolescents.

Question 29

True or False: Dental caries can have systemic health effects.

Answer 29

True: They can lead to infections that affect overall health.

Question 30

What dietary habit can reduce the risk of dental caries?

Answer 30

Limiting sugary snacks and beverages.

Question 31

Fill in the blank: The ______ is the hard outer layer of a tooth that is affected by caries.

Answer 31

enamel.

Question 32

What are the stages of dental caries progression?

Answer 32

Initial demineralization, enamel caries, dentin caries, pulp involvement.

Question 33

Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a risk factor for dental caries? A) Poor oral hygiene B) High sugar diet C) Regular dental visits

Answer 33

C) Regular dental visits

Question 34

What is the significance of saliva in preventing dental caries?

Answer 34

Saliva helps neutralize acids and provides minerals for remineralization.

Question 35

True or False: Dental sealants can be used to prevent caries on molars.

Answer 35

True: Sealants protect the grooves of molars from bacteria.

Question 36

What is the recommended frequency for dental check-ups?

Answer 36

Every six months.

Question 37

Fill in the blank: Caries can lead to a serious condition known as ______ if left untreated.

Answer 37

abscess.