Tooth Decay

Keep that smile on your face by protecting and strengthening your teeth and gums. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.

• Discover xylitolChew gum containing xylitol to reduce the activity of cavity-causing bacteria
• Battle the bad bugsInhibit cavity-causing bacteria by adding lactobacillus GG to children’s milk
• Pass up sticky sweetsCut down on cavity-causing bacteria by avoiding sugary foods that stick to your teeth or stay in the mouth for a long time

About This Condition

Tooth decay is the gradual breakdown of the tooth, beginning with the enamel surface and eventually progressing to the inner pulp.
Tooth decay is caused by acids produced by certain mouth bacteria in dental plaque. Factors that affect this process include oral hygiene, diet, meal frequency, saliva production, and heredity. Teeth with significant decay are said to have caries, or cavities.

Symptoms

People with tooth decay may have tooth pain, including sensitivity to cold food and drinks.

Healthy Lifestyle Tips

The ADA recommends regular tooth brushing—daily brushing, ideally after each meal.¹ Although thorough brushing varies from person to person, five to ten strokes in each area should be adequate.² Toothpastes containing 1,000 to 2,500 ppm (1 to 2.5 mg per gram) of fluoride have been shown to reduce caries risk.³

A recent population survey found blood lead levels were associated with the amount of dental caries in children and adults. The authors estimated that lead exposure is responsible for roughly 10% of dental caries in young Americans.⁴ For this and other health reasons, known and potential sources of lead exposure should be avoided. Common sources of lead exposure may include paint, foods grown near roadways, and water from lead pipes.⁵

 

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