What are characteristics of caries?

• A. Site-specific, cariogenic (caries causing), aciduric (acid loving) bacteria.
• B. Systemic degenerative disease
• C. Non-infectious condition
• D. Only sugar-related

Answer: (A)

Caries is driven by a localized plaque biofilm on tooth surfaces in which specific bacteria are able to cause decay. These organisms are cariogenic, meaning they produce acids from fermentable carbohydrates, and aciduric, meaning they survive and thrive in the low pH they create. This combination leads to demineralization of enamel and dentin right at the sites where plaque accumulates, such as pits, fissures, and smooth surfaces that are repeatedly exposed to sugars. The process reflects a multifactorial, biofilm-mediated infection, influenced by diet, saliva, fluoride, and host tooth anatomy, not a systemic or non-infectious condition and not something caused only by sugar intake. That makes the description of site-specific, cariogenic, aciduric bacteria the most accurate representation of caries.