Get the 411 on Tooth Decay

Did you know that tooth decay is the second most common disease in the United States, coming in second only to the common cold? As children, we learn about how important it is to avoid cavities, and as parents, we work hard to promote good oral health for our kids. Understanding how cavities form and what you can do to prevent them will go a long way to a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Our mouths naturally produce bacteria; some of it is good, but other kinds can be destructive. When we eat an excessive amount of carbohydrates, junk food, or sweets, the bad bacteria use this as food and can multiply. This overgrowth of bad bacteria produces acids that wear down the enamel on your teeth. Initially, the tooth might become weakened, but can be repaired with fluoride, minerals, and proteins. Once the damage spread through the enamel, a cavity forms and a dentist must repair the tooth.

Different kinds of tooth decay can occur. Young children who take bottles with juice or milk to bed can early childhood decay or baby bottle mouth. In older adults, who are more prone to receding gums and dry mouth, the exposed roots of the teeth can form cavities. As well, cavities can form under old fillings or crowns, especially if food and bacteria get inside the area.