Review Article
Free Access
Feng J. · Liu J. · Jiang M. ·
Chen Q. · Zhang Y. · Yang M. · Zhai Y.
Abstract
Circulating nitrate is actively absorbed by salivary glands and secreted into the oral cavity, where it is reduced to nitrite by oral nitrate-reducing bacteria. This process has previously been considered harmful because nitrate and nitrite can promote the formation of potentially carcinogenic N-nitrosamines. However, recent studies have shown that nitrate may have other physiological functions, and it can serve as a precursor for the systemic production of nitric oxide and perform nitric oxide (NO)-like functions, such as promoting vasodilation, regulating metabolic diseases, alleviating senescence, and protecting the digestive system. Inside the oral cavity, nitric oxide is likely to inhibit sensitive species as part of the non-specific oral immune system. Exogenous administration of nitrate can maintain a balance in the pH of saliva. Oral nitrate-reducing bacteria can control the progression of caries by metabolizing lactic acid and reducing its accumulation, which is beneficial to the homeostasis of the oral microecology. In the current manuscript, we reviewed nitrate-reducing bacteria and their nitrate-metabolizing functions during the development of caries. Furthermore, we listed the effects of probiotics and dietary modification, which may be a promising method to prevent the occurrence of caries. We believe that this review provides novel ideas for the prevention of caries and treatment in clinical settings.
S. Karger AG, Basel
Article / Publication Details
Copyright / Drug Dosage / Disclaimer
Copyright: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be translated into other languages, reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, microcopying, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.
Drug Dosage: The authors and the publisher have exerted every effort to ensure that drug selection and dosage set forth in this text are in accord with current recommendations and practice at the time of publication. However, in view of ongoing research, changes in government regulations, and the constant flow of information relating to drug therapy and drug reactions, the reader is urged to check the package insert for each drug for any changes in indications and dosage and for added warnings and precautions. This is particularly important when the recommended agent is a new and/or infrequently employed drug.
Disclaimer: The statements, opinions and data contained in this publication are solely those of the individual authors and contributors and not of the publishers and the editor(s). The appearance of advertisements or/and product references in the publication is not a warranty, endorsement, or approval of the products or services advertised or of their effectiveness, quality or safety. The publisher and the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to persons or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content or advertisements.
Comments (0)