What are cavities and how do they occur?
Tooth decay is the disease known as caries or “cavities”. Unlike other diseases, however, caries is not life threatening and is highly preventable, though it affects most people to some degree during their lifetime. Tooth decay occurs when your teeth are frequently exposed to foods containing carbohydrates (starches and sugars) like soda pop, candy, ice cream, cakes, and even fruits. Natural bacteria live in your mouth and form plaque. The plaque interacts with deposits left on your teeth from sugary and starchy foods to produce acids. These acids damage tooth enamel over time by dissolving, or demineralizing, the mineral structure of teeth, producing tooth decay and weakening the teeth. Left untreated tooth decay will eventually eat through the hard tissues of the tooth and cause an infection of the nerve. It is at this point that the tooth will become painful. Regular checkups with x-rays, proper hygiene and a diet low in carbohydrates are the best way to prevent decay before it reac
