Your mouth has a thriving community of bacteria, but relatively few cause tooth decay. Daily brushing and flossing, and regular checkups at Allen Park Dental Care, will keep those that do at bay.
Bacteria that cause tooth decay are in the mutans streptococcus family. The bacteria mix with sugar. This mixture creates a powerful acid that 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 give the bacteria to babies.
It’s important that moms and dads protect their children from early tooth decay. Start teaching daily oral hygiene as soon as your child’s first tooth erupts. Childhood decay is so prevalent that some parents believe it’s just part of growing up. But it doesn’t have to be!
At Allen Park Dental Care, we cannot stress the importance of good dental hygiene enough! We offer family and cosmetic dentistry. Schedule your next checkup today, and remember to brush and floss!
Contact Szalai & Szalai DDS – Allen Park Dental Care:
313-928-2323
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
5329 Allen Rd
Allen Park, Michigan
48101
