National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the National Dental Assisting Exam with comprehensive quiz questions, including multiple choice and detailed explanations. Equip yourself for success!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.

Which bacteria are primarily linked to the development of dental caries?

Staphylococcus Aureus
Streptococcus Mutans
Escherichia Coli
Bacillus Cereus

The correct answer is: Streptococcus Mutans

Streptococcus mutans is primarily linked to the development of dental caries due to its ability to ferment carbohydrates and produce lactic acid as a byproduct. This acid demineralizes the tooth enamel, leading to the formation of cavities. S. mutans is a significant contributor to the biofilm formation on tooth surfaces, enhancing the potential for plaque accumulation. The bacteria thrive in sugary environments, making them particularly relevant to individuals with high sugar intake, as they can rapidly metabolize sugars and produce the acids that cause tooth decay. Their presence in dental plaque indicates a higher risk of caries, confirming their central role in the disease process.