Why do I have cavities?
It’s the word that people fear when they go to the dentist for their check-ups: Cavities. You brush twice a day and floss so why did your dentist give you a failing grade on the big oral health test? Here’s an interesting fact many in Ballwin, MO don’t know: cavities are a very common disorder, second only to the common cold, in fact. Still not making you feel better? Let’s take a look at the facts:
What is a dental cavity?
Dental Cavities are a result of tooth decay. Decay is the deterioration of the tooth structure; both the enamel and the dentin can be affected.
What causes a tooth cavity?
Cavities start to form on teeth when the bacterium in your mouth changes the food you eat into acid. This acid, combined with saliva and the remaining food particles in your mouth form plaque, which sticks to your teeth if not washed or brushed out. Plaque begins to form within 20 minutes of eating. It is this plaque that damages your teeth’s enamel, and eats away at it, forming a cavity.