Tooth decay – An Introduction
Humans have thirty-two teeth in total. Maintaining them might seem to be one of the easiest jobs on earth. But it is something that should be done with utter seriousness. Our teeth require proper attention for it can put us in trouble almost always if not taken care of. Tooth decay is a hole in the tooth that appears due to our carelessness.
Tooth decay, dental caries or most commonly known as cavities, is a breakdown of teeth due to acids secreted by bacteria. These cavities usually start small and would be painless. But as it gets older, the cavities become larger, going deep into the teeth and when it reaches the gum, pain is experienced by the victim. If not diagnosed at the right time, these cavities can torture him or her.
Tooth Decay |
There are four factors required for the formation of a cavity. They are enamel, bacteria, fermentable carbohydrates (generally sugar) and time. The most common bacteria responsible for the formation of tooth decay are Streptococcus mutans.