Q: How does a cavity get started?
A: A cavity is caused by the action of acids on the enamel surface of the tooth. Acid in your mouth? Yes. Acid is produced when sugars, mainly in the form of sucrose in food and beverages, interacts with bacteria that live in plaque, the filmy substance on the teeth. The reaction leads to a loss of calcium and phosphate from the enamel that protects the tooth, a process called demineralization. As this process repeats itself over many months, a small patch of demineralized enamel eventually collapses. Usually it's in a spot not readily noticeable, like in a fissure or groove or between teeth.
Fluoride, when present in the mouth, slows down this demineralization process. Left untreated, the cavity will spread damage into the dentine, the softer, more sensitive part of the tooth under the enamel. Eventually the decay will destroy the tooth. The pain, of course, will drive you to the dentist. One way to avoid cavities, also called dental caries, is to avoid sugars and to brush and floss faithfully. Talk with your dentist about ways to avoid tooth decay.
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