Dental caries (tooth decay) is one of the most common of all disorders, second only to the common cold. It usually occurs in children and young adults but can affect any person. It is the most important cause of tooth loss in younger people (www.nlm.nih.gov). There are many causes for tooth decay ranging from bacteria to acids. We will explain these caues and also to you ways to prevent it.

Bacteria, acid, food debris, and saliva combine in the mouth to form a sticky substance called plaque that adheres to the teeth. It is most prominent on the grooved chewing surfaces of back molars, just above the gum line on all teeth, and at the edges of fillings. Plaque that is not removed from the teeth mineralizes into calculus (tartar). Plaque and calculus irritate the gums, resulting in gingivitis and ultimately periodontitis (www.nlm.nih.gov). The acids in plaque dissolve the enamel surface of the tooth and create holes in the tooth (cavities). Cavities are usually painless until they grow very large inside the interna

Not to mention that dental and periodontal diseases are more common in persons whose personal behaviors involve alcohol, abuse, tobacco use, poor diet and medications or conditions involving diabetes mellitus, HIV, etc… These behaviors or conditions will not help prevent dental diseases but rather help increase. (www.dentalreference.com/html/decay.html).

· Ninety five percent of elderly persons have moderate to severe periodontal disease.

· Fifty percent of all adults have gingivitis.

· Reduce or avoid sugary snacks and drinks.

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