Education Library - Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is known as caries or cavities. Tooth decay occurs when teeth are exposed to foods containing carbohydrates such as candy, cookies, cake, crackers and soda pop. There is bacteria living in your mouth that forms plaque. This plaque interacts with the sugary foods and produce acids. Over time these acids damage the tooth enamel (outer layer of the tooth) dissolving and demineralizing the structure, resulting in tooth decay.

How Can I Prevent Tooth Decay?
The bacterial by-product acid, which is constantly present in the mouth takes the opportunity to demineralise enamel when the pH balance in the mouth is lowered.

Everyone is at risk for cavities. We can do our part to prevent tooth decay by brushing and flossing regularly. Avoid eating sugary foods and soda pop throughout the day. Also, fluoride is added to our city water, which helps strengthen enamel and in turn, prevent tooth decay.

Regular dental visits that include an examination and x-rays are the best way to detect decay at an early stage and prevent tooth decay from spreading.


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