What causes tooth decay?
The main factor in the development of tooth decay is sugar. Sugars are broken down into acids by bacteria that exist in plaque, which builds up on the surfaces of our teeth. These acids can then dissolve the hard structures of our teeth. Plaque is made up of a combination of food, saliva and natural bacteria found in the mouth.
Read the transcript for this film: ’cause of tooth decay’
This process of acid production happens every time we eat sugars. This is sometimes known as an ‘acid attack’. After each attack, it takes some time for our teeth to recover. If we do not leave enough time for our teeth to recover, decay will progress and begin to form holes in our teeth, leading to toothache and even loss of teeth.
Decay may not be visible in the early stages or may appear as a chalky white patch. If the teeth continue to face acid attacks however, these white patches can progress and turn into holes.
The more often your child eats or drinks sugary things the greater the chance of tooth decay. The best way to minimise decay therefore is to limit the frequency and amount of sugar eaten.
Given that teeth need time to recover, limiting the frequency of sugar intake is the most important factor. This reduces the number of “acid attacks” faced by the teeth. This is very closely followed by limiting the amount of sugar at each intake.
These positive changes should be supported by following these simple but important tips
- Brush teeth and gums at least twice daily; in the morning and last thing at night.
- For children under three years of age use a smear of toothpaste on the brush. For children aged three years and above, use a pea-sized amount. Use toothpaste containing at least 1,000 parts per million (ppm) fluoride.
- Children should be supervised and encouraged not to swallow toothpaste while brushing.
- ‘Spit, don’t rinse’ after brushing – this gives the toothpaste time to work to protect teeth.
- Keep food and drinks containing sugar to mealtimes only.
- Plain milk and tap water are the safest drinks for teeth.
- Register with a dentist and visit as advised