Question

What is tooth enamel chemically? State the condition when its starts corroding? What happens when food particles left in the mouth after eating degrade? Why do doctors suggest use of tooth powder/tooth paste to prevent tooth decay?

Answer 1

Tooth enamel is primarily formed of hydroxyapatite (crystalline calcium phosphate).

Food particle that left in mouth undergo degradation which results formation of pyruvic acid.. This pyruvic acid starts to corrode the enamel once pH of mouth is below 5.5

tooth powder/ tooth paste are basic in nature so they neutralize the effect of pyruvic acid and help to prevent dental cavity.

Hope you got the point