The role of sugar-rich diet and salivary proteins in dental plaque formation and oral health

Background: Dental plaque is a complex colorless film of bacteria that develops on the surfaces of teeth. Different mechanisms of microbial adhesion to tooth surfaces exist. Both non-specific and specific types of adherence have been anticipated. Highlight: The present review evaluated the effect of sugar-rich diet and salivary proteins on oral hygiene and dental plaque development. Conclusion: The oral microbiota is essential for maintaining and reestablishing a healthy oral cavity. Different types of sugars have different effects on the inhibition and formation of dental plaque. The peptides, proteins, and amino acids secreted by parotid glands in the oral cavity facilitate neutralizing the acidity in dental plaque and preventing dental caries. A properly balanced diet is crucial for both a healthy oral cavity and the oral microbiome. (C) 2021 Japanese Association for Oral Biology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The oral microbiota plays a crucial role in maintaining oral hygiene, with different types of sugars and salivary proteins affecting the formation and inhibition of dental plaque. A balanced diet is essential for the health of both the oral cavity and the oral microbiome.