This article from Dental Care Today in Fishers is about dental health, and the bacteria that causes tooth decay.
Your mouth has a thriving community of bacteria. There are from 200-300 types. But relatively few cause cavities.
Bacteria that cause tooth decay are in the mutans streptococcus family. The bacteria mix with sugar. This mixture creates a powerful acid. The acid reduces the calcium in tooth enamel. When the bacteria remains on teeth, it creates a yellowish substance called plaque. Plaque is brutally effective at drilling into tooth enamel and causing cavities. Minerals in saliva and fluoride help enamel re-mineralize.
Special Caution for Parents
The tooth decay bacteria can spread through saliva. People in close contact with one another are at risk. Sharing spoons or kissing are two avenues. Mothers, fathers, siblings, and caregivers can the bacteria to babies. Young children whose teeth are forming are at a heightened risk of decay. It’s important that parents protect their children from early tooth decay. Start teaching daily oral hygiene as soon as your child’s first tooth appears. Childhood decay is so prevalent that some parents believe it’s just part of growing up. But it doesn’t have to be!
Daily oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and fluoride protect young teeth. You and your children can get fluoride from toothpaste, fluoridated water, fluoride rinses, fluoride gels, and fluoride supplements.
Fluoride does three crucial things:
- It replaces minerals
- It prevents more mineral loss
- It curbs acid-causing bacteria
Remember that if you get too much fluoride, it can stain teeth. Your dentist can advise you on the correct amount. Also, most bottled water doesn’t contain fluoride. Keep that in mind if you and your family only drink bottled water.
At Dental Care Today in Fishers, your dental health is our top priority every single day. Our services include general and cosmetic dentistry. Call to schedule an appointment with us today.
Contact Dental Care Today PC – E. Dale Behner DDS:
317-842-2337
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
9744 Lantern Rd
Fishers, Indiana
46037
