Did you know?

1. Tooth decay is one of the most common of all diseases, second only to the common cold.
2. Tooth decay affects more than one-fourth of U.S. children ages two to five, half of those ages twelve to fifteen, and more than 90 percent of U.S. adults over age 40.
3. Three factors are necessary for tooth decay to occur: susceptible teeth, acid producing bacteria and a diet rich in sugars and refined carbohydrates.
4. Babies are not born with decay-causing bacteria in their mouths; they are transmitted through saliva from mothers, caregivers, or family members.
5. Restricting sugar intake is important in preventing tooth decay: your total sugar intake should be less than 50 grams a day (about ten teaspoons) including sugars in other foods.
1. Tooth decay is one of the most common of all diseases, second only to the common cold.
2. Tooth decay affects more than one-fourth of U.S. children ages two to five, half of those ages twelve to fifteen, and more than 90 percent of U.S. adults over age 40.
3. Three factors are necessary for tooth decay to occur: susceptible teeth, acid producing bacteria and a diet rich in sugars and refined carbohydrates.
4. Babies are not born with decay-causing bacteria in their mouths; they are transmitted through saliva from mothers, caregivers, or family members.
5. Restricting sugar intake is important in preventing tooth decay: your total sugar intake should be less than 50 grams a day (about ten teaspoons) including sugars in other foods.

Tooth decay happens when acids wear away the tooth's hard surface layer, called enamel. These acids are made by a sticky film called plaque. Plaque build-up on teeth has germs that feed on sugary foods. The process of digesting these sugars makes acids that attack tooth surfaces.

Over time, tooth decay can cause holes in the tooth surface. These are called tooth cavities. If left untreated, cavities can get bigger. They can even destroy the tooth.

If you think you have tooth decay, see your dental team. Your dentist is likely to put in a filling. Fillings may stop the cavity from getting bigger.

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