What can trigger the acidogenic response in dental biofilm?

The acidogenic response in dental biofilm is primarily triggered by the consumption of carbohydrates, particularly sugars. When carbohydrates are present in the oral cavity, bacteria within the dental biofilm metabolize these sugars and produce acids as a byproduct. This acid production can lower the pH of the oral environment, leading to demineralization of tooth enamel and potentially resulting in dental caries.

The reason sugars are particularly effective in triggering this response is that many of the bacteria that inhabit dental biofilm, such as Streptococcus mutans, specialize in fermenting simple sugars. This fermentation process is rapid and results in a significant production of acids that can contribute to tooth decay.

While proteins, dairy products, and fluoride play roles in oral health, they do not have the same direct and immediate impact on acid production in dental biofilm compared to carbohydrates. Proteins can have a neutral or even alkalizing effect when metabolized, dairy products often contain calcium which can help buffer acids, and excessive fluoride use is generally associated with reducing the incidence of caries rather than promoting acidogenic responses.