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Cavities (Tooth Decay) & You

What is tooth decay?

Tooth decay is defined as a destruction of your tooth's enamel. This happens when carbohydrate containing foods, things like milk, soda, raisins, sweets or other high sugar containing foods are left on the teeth. The bacteria that live in your mouth exist on these "leftover" foods, producing these harmful acids as a result.

In time, these harmful acids destroy your tooth enamel, giving you "tooth decay".

How do I prevent cavities (tooth decay) from happening to me?

You can help prevent tooth decay by following these tips:

-Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
-Clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaner.
-Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacking.

-Check with your dentist about use of supplemental fluoride, which strengthens your teeth, and about use of dental sealants (a plastic protective coating) applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to protect them from decay.
-Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral examination.

Are cavities just for kids? No.

Changes due to aging that happen naturally make cavities an adult problem as well. Separation of your gums from the teeth, along with an increased occurance of gum (periodontal) disease, can expose your tooth roots to damaging plaque.