Tooth Decay

Tooth decay happens because of harmful bacteria in your mouth, which, when combined with sugar in food, creates acid that can eat away at a tooth. If not properly treated, tooth decay can cause cavities, tooth infection, pain, and even the loss of the tooth.

This acid can begin attacking the teeth as soon as 20 minutes after eating! If not removed through proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, the acids can destroy the enamel on your child’s teeth, and cause tooth decay.

There are certain risk factors that can cause you to be more susceptible to tooth decay, which include:

• Dry mouth (saliva helps wash away food and harmful sugars)
• Diabetes
• Eating foods that are high in sugars
• Not getting enough fluoride
• Smoking, chewing tobacco, or exposure to secondhand smoke
• Improper oral hygiene

The treatment for tooth decay all depends on how advanced it is. But, as with everything, the sooner it’s treated, the better!