 Overview
Your teeth are covered with a sticky film
of bacteria called plaque. Following
a meal or snack, the bacteria release
acids that attack tooth enamel. Repeated
attacks can cause the enamel to break
down, eventually resulting in cavities.
Plaque that is not removed with thorough
daily brushing and cleaning between teeth
can eventually harden into calculus or
tartar. Brushing and cleaning between
teeth become more difficult when tartar
collects above the gum line. The gum
tissue can become swollen or may bleed.
This is called gingivitis, the early
stage of periodontal (gum) disease.
Preventing Decay:
- Brush your teeth twice a
day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean
between teeth daily with floss or
an interdental cleaner.
- Eat a balanced
diet and limit between-meal snacks.
- Visit
your dentist regularly for professional
cleanings and oral exams.
- Ask your
dentist about dental sealants,
a protective plastic coating
that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of
the back teeth where
decay often starts.
Additional
Resources
ADA Dental Minute
Video
News Release
Please note: The ADA does not provide specific answers
to individual questions about fees, dental problems, conditions, diagnoses,
treatments or proposed treatments, or requests for research. Information about
dental referrals, complaints and a variety of dental procedures may
be found here. You can also refer to our Frequently
Asked Questions page for answers to common questions.
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