5. What is tooth decay? Why does it occur?
Answers
Answer:
Cavities are permanently damaged areas in the hard surface of your teeth that develop into tiny openings or holes. Cavities, also called tooth decay or caries, are caused by a combination of factors, including bacteria in your mouth, frequent snacking, sipping sugary drinks and not cleaning your teeth well.
Cavities and tooth decay are among the world's most common health problems. They're especially common in children, teenagers and older adults. But anyone who has teeth can get cavities, including infants.
If cavities aren't treated, they get larger and affect deeper layers of your teeth. They can lead to a severe toothache, infection and tooth loss. Regular dental visits and good brushing and flossing habits are your best protection against cavities and tooth decay
Tooth decay is a damage to the tooth that can happen when decay-causing bacteria in your mouth make acids that attack the tooth surface , or enamal . this can lead to a small hole in a tooth called cavity. it causes infection.
major causes of tooth decay are sugary, stickyfoods and beverages. the more sugar consumed, the more acid which gets produced leading to decay. sugar combines with plaque to weaken the enamel leaving you vulnerable to tooth decay.