Question

Bacteria in the human mouth release enzymes to break up sucrose, and then polymerize glucose to form a bacterial plaque. When this glucose is digested, it forms lactic acid, which causes tooth decay. Tooth enamel is made of calcium phosphate. Lactic acid has a Ka 1.38x10-4 and ionizes into lactate and H3O+ ions. Assuming an initial lactic acid concentration of 0.10 mol/L on your tooth, determine the pH (assume a 1:1:1 mole ratio) and the percent ionization. Should people be concerned with plaque buildup? Justify your answer.

Answer 1

Yes, people should be concerned because plaque buildup might cause your breath to smell bad, or cause your teeth to look very yellow, consider brushing your teeth and using mouth wash daily and don’t drink or eat unhealthy foods that will cause your teeth to look bad. plaque buildup might also cause damage to the stomach and maybe affect when you have to use the restroom.