The mechanism by which tooth decay occurs in the mouth is a mystery to much of the general public. Note that dental caries is the most prevalent disease affecting the population of the United States. We all need to be informed about the nature of this devastating condition, which fortunately, is preventable.

All of us have bacteria present in the mouth, which is normal and usually harmless. However, when certain foods or beverages are introduced, the bacteria metabolize these substances, and the by-product is acid, which dissolves tooth structure. The cavity which results then progresses until a dentist intervenes, or the tooth may be destroyed completely. As we know there may be considerable pain, suffering, and expense associated with the episode.

The foods which contribute to decay are called fermentable carbohydrates, which include sugar-containing items, whether naturally occurring or prepared. One reason that wine is made from grapes and other fruits is because of their high sugar content, which ferments into alcohol. Even seemingly benign items such as grape juice, honey, raisins, or fruit leather can lead to serious tooth decay if consumed in quantity. Also, the usual culprits such as soda pop, candy, and gum are known offenders. The breakfast cereals which children crave should be considered as well, since they are frequently loaded with sugar.

Oral bacteria form a sticky film on the teeth, known as plaque. We all have it, and it forms regardless of whether or not we eat, even in a fasting person. It is not the same as food debris. Even when the plaque is completely removed by diligent brushing and flossing, it re-appears within 24 hours, ready to do damage again. The frequency and duration of exposure to harmful foodstuffs are factors which determine the severity of their impact on the teeth. Items such as hard candy, which dissolve slowly over a period of time, are particularly bad. Also sugary solutions such as soda pop are immediately available to the bacteria upon consumption.

A person may reduce or eliminate the risk associated with these substances by simply avoiding them and opting for a healthy diet. The elderly, and diabetics, or those patients taking anti-hypertensive medications have a reduced salivary flow, which greatly elevates the incidence of tooth decay. This is because saliva helps to buffer, or neutralize, the acids resulting from eating and drinking sugary foods.

It is a wise policy to minimize or eliminate the intake of sweets. There are other health benefits of doing so as well, which should help to motivate us to choose a good diet. As parents, we should educate our children at home from a young age how to maintain good oral health through prevention.

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