HOW DOES A TOOTH DECAY?

Q: What gets a cavity started?
A: What starts a cavity is the repetition of a process that occurs in your mouth when sugars from the food and drink you consume interact with bacteria that live in the plaque on your teeth. That interaction produces acid, which begins a process called demineralization, the loss of calcium and phosphate from the tooth’s enamel. It usually starts in a spot not readily noticeable, like in a fissure. Eventually, over months and months, the affected patch of enamel collapses, leaving a hole, or cavity. Left untreated, the cavity will spread into the dentin, the softer, more sensitive part of the tooth under the enamel. If the excruciating pain hasn’t driven you to the dentist first, decay will eventually destroy the tooth.
One of the keys to preventing decay is the removal of plaque. Plaque is the filmy substance that’s on the teeth. The more it is allowed to build up, the greater the danger of decay. Brushing and flossing is so important because they are the most effective ways of eliminating plaque. Having your teeth professionally cleaned and examined is essential. No matter how well you brush and floss, some plaque hardens into calculus or tartar and can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist. A professional dental examination is your best chance to find cavities and other dental problems before they become more severe too.

If you, your family or friends need dental care, we would be honored to provide you with state-of-the-art dental care in our modern dental practice. Refer someone you love to someone you trust!

Presented as a service to the community by Doctors Hoover and Yanda,

39 Milford Drive, Hudson, Ohio 44236. 330-650-0360. www.drshooverandyanda.com