This post from David Rice DDS in Elgin is about dental health and tooth decay.
Your mouth has a thriving community of bacteria. There are from 200-300 types, but most don’t cause tooth decay.
Bacteria that cause tooth decay are in the mutans streptococcus family. The bacteria mix with sugar to create a powerful acid. The acid reduces the calcium in tooth enamel. When the bacteria remains on teeth, it produces a yellowish substance called plaque. Plaque is brutally effective at drilling into tooth enamel and causing cavities. Minerals in saliva and fluoride help enamel re-mineralize.
The tooth decay bacteria can spread through saliva. People in close contact with one another are at risk. Sharing spoons or kissing are two avenues. Mothers, fathers, siblings, and caregivers can actually give the bacteria to babies. Young children whose teeth are forming are at a heightened risk of decay. Daily oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and fluoride protect young teeth.
At David Rice DDS in Elgin we want all our patients to have healthy teeth and gums. People throughout Bartlet, South Elgin, and Wayne come to us for comprehensive general and family dentistry, and restorative dentistry. Call to schedule an appointment today!
Contact David A. Rice, DDS:
847-741-2353
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1972 Larkin Ave Ste 1
Elgin, Illinois
60123