Part of the Ability of S

Question

Part of the ability of S. mutans to produce dental caries depends on its ability to
A)invade plaque and dissolve the gums.
B)convert sucrose to lactic acid.
C)convert proteins to sugars.
D)attach to the gums.

Accepted Answer

S. mutans is known to produce lactic acid from sucrose through a fermentation process, which ultimately results in the demineralization of the tooth enamel and the formation of dental caries. Thus the ability to convert sucrose to lactic acid is critical for its cariogenicity. The other options, such as invading plaque and dissolving gums or converting proteins to sugars, are not directly related to its cariogenic properties.