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Acid profile in carious dentin.
S Hojo1, N Takahashi, T Yamada
1Department of Oral Biochemistry, Tohoku University School of Dentistry, Sendai, Japan.
Journal of Dental Research
|March 1, 1991
Summary
Organic acids like lactate and acetate in carious dentin vary significantly. These acid profiles may indicate different microbial communities or stages of dentin caries progression.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Microbiology
- Dental Science
Background:
- Dentin caries involves the breakdown of tooth structure by acids produced by oral bacteria.
- Understanding the specific organic acids present in carious dentin is crucial for diagnosing and managing caries progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the profile of organic acids in carious dentin.
- To investigate potential correlations between acid profiles and the characteristics of dentin caries.
Main Methods:
- Gas chromatography was employed to quantify organic acids in dentin samples from 69 permanent teeth.
- Analysis focused on identifying and measuring various short-chain fatty acids, including lactate, acetate, and propionate.
Main Results:
- Lactate, acetate, and propionate were the predominant organic acids, constituting approximately 90% of the total acids in most samples.
- Significant variations in the proportions of these major acids were observed.
- Carious dentin under fillings or restorations showed low lactate levels but high acetate and propionate concentrations.
Conclusions:
- The distinct organic acid profiles in carious dentin suggest variations in microbial ecology.
- Acid profiles may serve as indicators for the stage or type of dentin caries.