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Fizz, Sugar, and Teeth

An Integrated Case Study in Dental Pathology

By Veda Nirav Shukla, Nalini V. Broadbelt

Fizz, Sugar, and Teeth


 

Abstract

This interrupted case study examines tooth decay and the underlying causes of dental lesions and cavities. “Sini” is a 23-year-old woman seeking relief from oral pain when eating. She also suffers from sensitivity to hot and cold, a condition that has developed over time in the context of poor oral hygiene and excessive soda consumption. Students read and answer questions about Sini’s condition as her dentist discovers severe decay in several of her posterior teeth. The case explores tooth placement and anatomy, the chemistry underlying dental erosion and caries associated with soda consumption, and strategies for preventing cavities. This integrated approach connects concepts from the nervous, digestive, and muscular systems as well as key principles of chemistry to provide a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms contributing to dental pathology. Designed to be flexible and accessible to a range of learners, the case is appropriate for both lower- and upper-level undergraduate students in anatomy and physiology courses, and is particularly well suited to students with an interest in dentistry or dental hygiene.

   

Date Posted

11/09/2026

Overview

Objectives

•    Identify the placement of the teeth in the mandible and maxilla.
•    Compare and contrast the function of different types of teeth.
•    Describe the parts and layers of a tooth.
•    Discuss the nerves that take information from the teeth to the brain and from the brain to the muscles of mastication (ascending and descending pathways).
•    Explain the process of tooth decay and the effects of soda and fluoride on dental health.

Keywords

  

Subject Headings

Anatomy
Biochemistry
Biology (General)
Interdisciplinary Sciences
Physiology

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

High school, Undergraduate lower division, Undergraduate upper division

  

FORMAT

PDF

   

TOPICAL AREAS

N/A

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Interrupted, Direct, Discussion

 

 

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