[Sugar and caries]

Without acids there is no caries. Acids develop through the metabolic action of the ever-present bacteria in the oral cavity, for which action low-molecular carbohydrates are necessary. The organism is able to keep the enamel surface in a healthy balance, if there is sufficient time for remineralization, and if the saliva reaches the enamel surface. But there is a clear connection between sugar and caries. Even if 99% of the sugar contained in food goes directly to the gastro-intestinal-tract, and even if only 1% remains orally for acid development in plaque and for storage as an extra- and intracellular polysaccharide, this share could still lead to caries.