What is tooth decay and how is it caused?

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Detailed Solution

Tooth decay is the damage of tooth enamel and dentin caused by acids made by mouth bacteria when they feed on sugars and starches; this leads to cavities if not treated.

We eat sugary or starchy foods. Bacteria on teeth make acids from these foods. The acid slowly dissolves the hard outer layer (enamel). Over time, a hole (cavity) forms and can reach the softer dentin and even the pulp, causing pain and infection.

Stage	What happens	Signs	Action
Demineralization	Acid removes minerals from enamel	White chalky spots	Fluoride, diet control
Cavity in enamel	Permanent hole forms	Sensitivity to sweets/cold	Filling
Dentin involvement	Faster spread due to softer dentin	Pain, dark spot	Larger filling/inlay
Pulp involvement	Nerve infected	Severe pain, abscess	Root canal or extraction

Main causes: frequent sugar intake, sticky snacks, poor brushing, low saliva (dry mouth), deep grooves, and harmful bacteria like Streptococcus mutans.
Risk boosters: sipping sweet drinks through the day, bedtime bottles for kids, tobacco, and acid reflux.
Protection: brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss, limit sugar frequency, drink water, chew sugar-free gum, get dental sealants, and regular dental checks.

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