What causes cavities?
Cavities are caused by bacteria. These bacteria are usually transmitted from parent to child. The transmission usually occurs within the first year of life when parents share utensils with their children. It is important for parents to keep their own teeth healthy so their childrens teeth stay healthy.
Cavities are caused by normal mouth bacteria that produce acid after food is present in the mouth. This acid dissolves the tooth and causes an infection, called tooth decay. Every time you eat, this acid reaction occurs in the mouth as the bacteria digests the sugars. This reaction lasts about 20 minutes. During this time, the acidic environment can destroy the tooth structure and lead to cavities. Consistency of a person’s saliva can also make a difference. Thinner saliva breaks up and washes away food more quickly. When a person eats a diet high in sugar and high carbohydrates, they tend to have thicker saliva, which in turn leaves more bacteria that causes cavities.
