13 Sep What is a cavity?
Cavities form as the result of the bacteria in your mouth digesting carbohydrates (sugars) you eat. Bacteria produce acid (like we produce uric acid) and the acid dissolves the tooth structure; forming microscopic holes. With repeated exposure to acid, the holes grow larger and larger. The tooth structure becomes weakened and soft. Once this occurs, the decay or cavity should be removed and the tooth restored with a material that is suitable to replace the damaged structure. Material choice depends on the size of the decay and presence of other weaknesses on the tooth like cracks. One way to prevent cavities is by limiting the frequency in which you eat carbohydrates/sugars to meal times and brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste and flossing after each meal.