What causes cavities and decay?
Decay is caused by plaque – a thin, sticky, colorless deposit of bacteria that constantly forms on everyone’s teeth. When sugar is eaten, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack the tooth enamel. After repeated acid attacks, the enamel breaks down and a cavity or hole is formed in the tooth. The process happens especially quickly with sugar in liquid form. The most common culprits in our office are 100% fruit juice, sports drinks, and chocolate milk. Regular milk, water, or Crystal Light are all great alternatives that kids love and will not cause cavities.
