Why Is It That the Tongue and Cheek Epithelium Doesn't

question 29

Multiple Choice

Why is it that the tongue and cheek epithelium doesn't provide a sufficient anaerobic environment for plaque anaerobes to grow,but the surface of teeth might?

• A)The epithelium is supplied with oxygen by capillary beds.This makes it a relatively aerobic environment and hostile to anaerobes.
• B)The tooth enamel is supplied with oxygen by capillary beds.This makes it a relatively anaerobic environment and hostile to aerobes.
• C)The surface of the tongue and cheek are constantly scraped by the action of consuming food.Layers of bacterial growth that might help to supply an anaerobic environment are scraped away,exposing lower levels to oxygen-rich air.
• D)The surface of teeth (especially the molars)have many pits and crevices that can serve as 'pockets' for layers of bacteria to grow in.Once the layers get deep enough,the bottom portions are anaerobic.This isn't possible on the very smooth surface of the tongue and cheek epithelium.