WHAT IS TOOTH DECAY?
Tooth enamel is hard yet porous. Plaque on the surface of your teeth
can produce acids that seep into the pores (rods) of the enamel and
break down its internal structure. This process, called
demineralization, can create a weak spot on the surface of the tooth
that may become a cavity if left untreated.
Decay often begins on biting surfaces, between the teeth, on exposed roots, and around existing fillings. |
Untreated, decay spreads into the tooth and can destroy the tooth structure. |
Decay enters and infects the pulp.
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THE ROLE OF FLUORIDE
Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by slowing the breakdown of
enamel and speeding up the remineralization process. The new enamel
crystals that form are harder, larger, and more resistant to acid.
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| TREATING AND PREVENTING TOOTH DECAY
Common sources of fluoride are fluoridated drinking water,
toothpaste, and mouth rinse. Inform your dentist if your drinking water
is not fluoridated. He or she may recommend that you use
high-concentration fluoride gels, mouth rinses, drops, or tablets. |