| What is Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay is a destruction of the tooth
enamel. It occurs when foods containing
carbohydrates (sugars and starches) such
as milk, pop, raisins, cakes or candy
are frequently left on the teeth. Bacteria
that live in the mouth thrive on these
foods, producing acids as a result. Over
a period of time, these acids destroy
tooth enamel, resulting in tooth decay.
How Do I Prevent Tooth Decay?
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.
Aren't Cavities Just Kid's Stuff?
No. Changes that occur with aging make
cavities an adult problem, too. Recession
of the gums away from the teeth, combined
with an increased incidence of periodontal (gum) disease,
can expose tooth roots to plaque. Tooth
roots are covered with cementum, a softer
tissue than enamel. They are susceptible
to decay and are more sensitive to touch
and to hot and cold. The majority of
people over age 50 have tooth-root decay.
Decay around the edges, or margins, of
fillings is also common to older adults.
Because many older adults lacked benefits
of fluoride and modern preventive dental
care when they were growing up, they
often have a number of dental fillings.
Over the years, these fillings may weaken
and tend to fracture and leak around
the edges. Bacteria accumulate in these
tiny crevices causing acid to build up
which leads to decay.
Please note: The ADA does not provide specific answers
to individual questions about fees, dental problems, conditions, diagnoses,
treatments or proposed treatments, or requests for research. Information about
dental referrals, complaints and a variety of dental procedures may
be found here. You can also refer to our Frequently
Asked Questions page for answers to common questions.
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