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== Introduction ==
== Introduction ==
Caries = tooth decay. <font color="red">(pic E6)</font color>
[[Image:Toothinfection.gif|thumb|right|200px|<small><center>Stages of tooth infection (Courtesy of Alun Williams (RVC))</center></small>]]
[[Image:Toothinfection.gif|thumb|right|200px|<small><center>Stages of tooth infection (Courtesy of Alun Williams (RVC))</center></small>]]
Dental caries is a plaque-induced demineralization of the teeth caused by the action of cariogenic bacteria on fermentable carbohydrates. The acid which is produced demineralizes the enamel and dentine. Bacteria is then able to invade the dentine and dentinal tubules, undermining the enamel and eventually causing the collapse of the enamel and cavitation of the tooth. The occlusal surfaces of the molar teeth are particularly prone to caries.
Dental caries is a plaque-induced demineralization of the teeth caused by the action of cariogenic bacteria on fermentable carbohydrates. The acid which is produced demineralizes the [[Enamel Organ#Enamel|enamel]] and [[Enamel Organ#Dentin|dentine]]. Bacteria is then able to invade the dentine and dentinal tubules, undermining the enamel and eventually causing the collapse of the enamel and cavitation of the tooth. The occlusal surfaces of the molar teeth are particularly prone to caries.
Dental caries is a multi-factorial disease which requires all four of the following:
Dental caries is a multi-factorial disease which requires all four of the following:
The occurence of dental caries is low in dogs when compared with humans. There are thought to be several reasons for this such as the fact there are fewer cariogenic bacteria in the normal oral flora and a higher salivary pH, acting to neutralize acid produced by the bacteria. Also, canine tooth surfaces are not prone to food impaction and their diets are normally low in fermentable carbohydrates. Dogs also have a lower frequency of food intake compared with humans.
The occurence of dental caries is low in dogs when compared with humans. There are thought to be several reasons for this such as the fact there are fewer cariogenic bacteria in the normal oral flora and a higher salivary pH, acting to neutralize acid produced by the bacteria. Also, canine tooth surfaces are not prone to food impaction and their diets are normally low in fermentable carbohydrates. Dogs also have a lower frequency of food intake compared with humans.
==Aetiology==
Caries is an organic demineralization of tooth substance. It is caused initially by acidic metabolites produced during breakdown of simple sugars by specific bacteria (''Streptococcus mutans'' and ''S.sanguis''). Once the enamel has been eroded and the dentine is reached, the destructive process seems to be enhanced. Caries most frequently occurs in the pits and fissures of the molar teeth .
== Signalment ==
== Signalment ==
Not uncommon in dogs and never really been diagnosed in cats.
Dental caries can occur in any breed or size of dog. There is a greater risk of the condition with salivary gland dysfunction or dehydration as well as with diets high in fermentable carbohydrates or simple sugars.
Dental caries can occur in any breed or size of dog. There is a greater risk of the condition with salivary gland dysfunction or dehydration as well as with diets high in fermentable carbohydrates or simple sugars.
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[[Category:Teeth_-_Inflammatory_Pathology]] [[Category:Oral_Diseases_-_Dog]] [[Category:Oral_Diseases_-_Cat]] [[Category:Expert_Review - Small Animal]]
[[Category:Teeth_-_Inflammatory_Pathology]] [[Category:Oral_Diseases_-_Dog]] [[Category:Oral_Diseases_-_Cat]] [[Category:LisaM reviewing]]
[[Category:To Do - Dentistry Images]]
[[Category:Endodontic Conditions]]
[[Category:Endodontic Conditions]]