Australian Dental Council (ADC) Practice Test 2026 - Free ADC Practice Questions and Study Guide

The development of dental caries is closely associated with the presence of simple carbohydrates in the diet. Simple carbohydrates, such as sugars found in candies, soft drinks, and sweetened foods, are easily fermentable by bacteria in the oral cavity. These bacteria metabolize the sugars, producing acids as byproducts. The acids generated can lower the pH level in the mouth, leading to demineralization of the tooth enamel, which is a key initial step in the caries process.

In contrast, complex carbohydrates, while they can also contribute to dental caries, are not as readily fermented. Proteins and fats play a minimal role in the development of caries since they do not ferment to produce acids that directly contribute to enamel demineralization in the same way that simple sugars do. Thus, when discussing dietary choices related to caries risk, the predominant concern is indeed with the consumption of simple carbohydrates.