FACTORS CAUSING DENTAL DECAY
- Teeth quality
When baby’s teeth begin to grow, the surface of the teeth are still soft enamel. Over time, the teeth mature in a process where calcium helps to harden the enamel. This will reduce the tooth susceptibility to tooth decay
- Decay-causing bacteria
Decay-causing bacteria is the most important cause of cavities. These bacteria adhere to the surface of the tooth. Sugar is a source of food for the bacteria. Then many other bacteria adhere, proliferate, and release acid that dissolves the teeth. This begins the formation of a cavity.
- Sugar (sweets, juice, etc.)
Consuming a lot of sugary foods, such as candies, gummies, and sweet juice, can increase the number of bacteria living on your teeth. This can ultimately lead to cause tooth decay. The saliva of a child who eats a lot of sugary foods and drinks becomes sticky. This makes it difficult to completely remove clumps of bacteria called plaque, even if his/her teeth are brushed properly. Consequently, the child is susceptible to tooth decay.
- Time and saliva
if teeth are exposed to sugar for a long time, bacteria proliferate forming a plaque. As a result, the plaque adheres to the surface of the teeth where cavities can begin to form. The saliva can neutralize the acid inside of the mouth after having a meal. However, eating at irregular times repeatedly can cause the saliva not to function properly, leaving acid inside the mouth and ultimately causing the teeth to dissolve or demineralize.
