More than 70% of initial ______ ______ are acquired from the mother.

More than 70% of initial ______ ______ are acquired from the mother.

• A. Oral viruses
• B. Fungal spores
• C. Streptococci
• D. Cariogenic bacteria

Answer: (D)

The idea being tested is how cariogenic bacteria are transmitted to a child, especially from the mother. In many kids, the first bacteria that colonize the mouth come from a caregiver’s saliva, and more than 70% of initial acquisition is from the mother. The bacteria involved are cariogenic ones—primarily Streptococcus mutans and related species—that metabolize sugars to acids and initiate the caries process. This is why the statement points to cariogenic bacteria rather than other microbes. Why this option fits best: the phrase “cariogenic bacteria” specifically names the organisms associated with tooth decay and with early colonization that influences caries risk. The other choices don’t fit the concept as directly: oral viruses and fungal spores are not the agents driving dental caries, and streptococci is too broad a category (not all streptococci are cariogenic).

The idea being tested is how cariogenic bacteria are transmitted to a child, especially from the mother. In many kids, the first bacteria that colonize the mouth come from a caregiver’s saliva, and more than 70% of initial acquisition is from the mother. The bacteria involved are cariogenic ones—primarily Streptococcus mutans and related species—that metabolize sugars to acids and initiate the caries process. This is why the statement points to cariogenic bacteria rather than other microbes.

Why this option fits best: the phrase “cariogenic bacteria” specifically names the organisms associated with tooth decay and with early colonization that influences caries risk. The other choices don’t fit the concept as directly: oral viruses and fungal spores are not the agents driving dental caries, and streptococci is too broad a category (not all streptococci are cariogenic).