How do you explain the mechanism responsible for the formation of dental caries by resident microorganisms?

Acid production: Some of the bacteria normally present in the mouth ferment sugars to produce acid that dissolves the minerals in teeth, hence caries.

Demineralization: Dental caries is the result of bacteria settling onto teeth and metabolizing the foods you eat. The end product of that metabolism is acid. When the ph falls below 5.5, the tooth is demineralized. If the process continues unchecked, the tooth structure becomes so weak that it falls apart and becomes a cavity. Above 5.5 if fluoride, calcium and phosphate are in the saliva, it can be remineralized.

Civilization: Has to do with the refined high sugar diet that comes along with advances in civilization. The resident bacteria layer, each layer contributing to the activity of the next layer. Sugars are passed up the bacterial chain, and are converted into acids. The acids demineralize the teeth, allowing entrance of other bacteria that in turn break down more tooth material. See your Dentist regularly.

Demineralization: Acids produced by resident bacteria demineralize the enamel matrix, causing decay of the tooth. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dental_caries

Demineralization: Acids produced by resident bacteria demineralize the enamel matrix, causing decay of the tooth. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dental_caries

Bacteria: Literally have thousands of different types of bacteria living in our mouths, most of which help us digest our food. The bacteria will layer in specific order on and around the teeth. Food debris, in particular sugars/starches/acids, will gradually be converted into hydrochloric acid which will etch calcium out of the enamel, allowing bacteria to penetrate the tooth, destroying tooth material.

Dynamic Process: When sugars or carbohydrates are consumed, bacteria have the ability to produce acid which leads to DE-mineralization and tooth decay.