What does the Stephan Plot measure?

The Stephan Plot measures pH changes on the tooth enamel surface over time, particularly in response to dietary carbohydrates that are metabolized by oral bacteria. This plot illustrates the relationship between the consumption of fermentable sugars and the subsequent drop in pH levels in the mouth, which is critical to understanding the onset of dental caries.

As sugar is consumed, bacterial activity increases, leading to the production of acids that lower the pH in the oral environment. This reduction in pH is an indicator of enamel demineralization, as a pH below 5.5 can lead to the dissolution of minerals from the tooth enamel. The Stephan Plot effectively allows researchers and dental professionals to visualize this pH shift, making it a valuable tool for assessing the risk of caries and the impact of various dietary habits on oral health.

The other choices relate to important aspects of dental health but do not capture the specific focus of the Stephan Plot. For instance, measuring the rate of tooth decay would encompass broader factors beyond just pH levels, while fluoride uptake pertains specifically to how fluoride interacts with enamel, not the measurement of pH changes. Similarly, the effectiveness of dental treatments involves outcomes that may not directly correlate with the pH changes tracked by the Stephan