Cariogenic Bacteria Metabolic Pathway

The cariogenic bacteria metabolic pathway is the series of biochemical processes by which oral bacteria metabolize dietary carbohydrates into organic acids, primarily lactic acid. This acid production leads to a decrease in local pH within dental biofilms, resulting in demineralization of tooth enamel and the development of dental caries. The pathway involves carbohydrate uptake, glycolysis, acid production, and catabolite control, varying slightly among different bacterial species. Targeting this pathway can involve inhibiting bacterial growth, disrupting metabolic enzymes, interfering with biofilm formation, or neutralizing pH.

Other names

Dental Caries Metabolic PathwayOral Bacteria Carbohydrate MetabolismAcidogenic FermentationPlaque Biofilm Metabolism

Inhibition of bacterial growth, disruption of metabolic enzymes, interference with biofilm formation, pH neutralization.