Systemic effect of orthophosphates and polyphosphates on oral streptococci in young men

• Published in: Nutrition research (New York, N.Y.) Vol. 3; no. 5; pp. 663 - 671
• Main Authors: Wild, S.J, Zemel, M.B, Shelef, L.A
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York, NY Elsevier Science 1983
• Subjects: bacteria; Bacteriology; Biological and medical sciences; calcium; dental caries; diet; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; Microbiology; nutrition; nutrition research; Pathogenicity, virulence, toxins, bacteriocins, pyrogens, host-bacteria relations, miscellaneous strains; phosphates; preventive nutrition; saliva; Human; Phosphates; Oral cavity; Incorporation; Streptococcus; Calcium; Diet; Dental carie; Bacteria; Experimental study; Saliva; Biological activity
• ISSN: 0271-5317; 1879-0739
• DOI: 10.1016/S0271-5317(83)80094-3

Systemic effects of ortho- and polyphosphates on oral streptococci and the buffer capacity of saliva were evaluated at 2 levels of calcium intake in 10 college males in a 75-day metabolic study. Supplements were provided in capsule form. The study assessed the potential of dietary phosphorus in reducing dental caries. No significant differences in bacterial colony counts were found in saliva, buccal, or vestibule surfaces for any of the diets. Acidity was produced at the same rate in all saliva samples, and the supplements did not affect levels of phosphorus or calcium 12-14 hours after supplement intakes. These results suggest that phosphates do not systemically mediate human susceptibility to dental caries. (wz)