# Environmental particulate matter—one of the culprits in the development of caries

## TL;DR

This paper explores how environmental particulate matter contributes to dental caries and highlights oxidative stress as a key mechanism.

## Contribution

The study introduces a new research pathway linking oxidative stress and dental caries via the Nrf2 pathway.

## Key findings

- Environmental particulate matter is linked to the development of dental caries.
- Oxidative stress plays a significant role in the progression of dental caries.
- The Nrf2 pathway is proposed as a new focus for understanding caries pathogenesis.

## Abstract

With the development of society, ecological and environmental problems have gradually become the focus of attention of countries around the world, among which environmental particulate matter poses a major harm to health. This article elucidates the association between environmental particulate matter and dental caries and provides new insights into the underlying mechanisms. In addition, this study emphasizes the role of oxidative stress in the occurrence and development of dental caries, and a new research pathway based on the interaction between oxidative stress and dental caries based on the Nrf2 pathway has become the focus of future research on the pathogenesis of dental caries. The relevant content of this review can provide a certain theoretical basis for the follow-up multidisciplinary joint research of researchers, and provide a certain reference for public health personnel and policymakers to formulate prevention strategies and public health interventions, carry out more accurate individualized treatment for high-risk groups, implement key prevention and treatment, and promote the overall improvement of effective prevention and treatment of caries. Ultimately, more attention must be paid to addressing the relationship between environmental particulate pollution and dental caries, with a focus on pollution control and reducing preventable environmental risks in order to protect oral health more broadly.