Which carbohydrates are primarily associated with causing dental caries?

The carbohydrates that are primarily associated with causing dental caries are sucrose and glucose. These sugars are highly fermentable by the bacteria present in dental plaque. When consumed, they are broken down by oral bacteria, leading to the production of acids that can demineralize tooth enamel. The presence of sucrose is particularly notable as it is often found in many sugary foods and beverages, making it a significant contributor to tooth decay.

While other carbohydrates, like starch and lactose, can also contribute to dental caries, they are not as readily fermentable as sucrose and glucose. Sucrose is known for its role in the synthesis of glucans, which help bacteria adhere to the tooth surface, promoting plaque formation and, consequently, the risk of caries. This makes sucrose and glucose the primary culprits of dental caries, aligning with dental health research and recommendations.