Saliva and dental plaque fluid ionic milieu

The saliva and dental plaque fluid ionic milieu refers to the complex aqueous environment surrounding the teeth, consisting of water, electrolytes, and proteins that maintain oral homeostasis. This milieu is characterized by its concentrations of calcium, phosphate, and fluoride ions, which are essential for the dynamic equilibrium between tooth demineralization and remineralization (Margolis & Moreno, 1994). Saliva provides a critical buffering system, primarily through bicarbonate ions, to neutralize acids produced by plaque bacteria during the fermentation of dietary carbohydrates (Fejerskov & Kidd, 2008). The plaque fluid, which exists as the extracellular phase of dental plaque, serves as a local reservoir for these ions, directly influencing the saturation levels relative to enamel hydroxyapatite (Larsen & Pearce, 2003). Therapeutic interventions often target this milieu by introducing exogenous ions, such as fluoride, to promote the formation of more acid-resistant mineral phases like fluorapatite (Dawes, 2008). Additionally, agents such as casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) and arginine-based products interact with this milieu to enhance mineral delivery and elevate pH levels. Consequently, the composition and flow rate of these fluids are primary determinants of an individual's risk for dental caries and erosive tooth wear.

Other names

Oral fluid ionic compositionPlaque fluid electrolytesSalivary ionic environmentDental plaque fluid compositionOral mineral milieu

Modification of the saturation levels of calcium, phosphate, and fluoride ions to promote the remineralization of dental enamel and neutralize bacterial acids through buffering systems like bicarbonate and arginine metabolism.