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Dental caries and mutans streptococci in relation to plasma ascorbic acid

M K Väänänen1, H A Markkanen, V J Tuovinen

  • 1Department of Periodontology, University of Kuopio, Finland.

Scandinavian Journal of Dental Research
|April 1, 1994
PubMed
Summary

Low ascorbic acid (vitamin C) levels in plasma are linked to more dental caries and plaque. This may be due to lower fruit and vegetable intake in individuals with vitamin C deficiency.

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Area of Science:

  • Nutrition Science
  • Oral Health Research
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Ascorbic acid (AA), or vitamin C, is known to influence bacterial growth in vitro.
  • Emerging evidence suggests AA may play a role in reducing dental caries activity in vivo.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between plasma ascorbic acid levels and dental caries.
  • To explore the relationship between AA levels, oral cariogenic flora, and salivary secretion rates.

Main Methods:

  • A comparative study involving dentulous adults with low plasma AA (< or = 25 mumol/l) and controls (plasma AA > or = 50 mumol/l).
  • Subjects were matched for age, sex, and tooth count; clinical dental assessments were performed double-blind.
  • Oral plaque, caries, fillings, erosions, and bacterial counts were evaluated.

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Main Results:

  • The low AA group exhibited significantly higher levels of visible plaque and decayed tooth surfaces compared to controls.
  • No significant differences were observed in the number of fillings or the overall oral bacterial growth between the groups.
  • Dietary analysis revealed significantly lower consumption of vegetables, berries, and fruits in the low AA group.

Conclusions:

  • Low plasma ascorbic acid levels are associated with increased dental caries and plaque accumulation.
  • Dietary habits, specifically lower intake of fruits and vegetables, may contribute to reduced ascorbic acid levels and poorer oral health outcomes.
  • Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms linking vitamin C, oral microbiota, and caries development.