What Causes Cavities and Tooth Decay?

When food is left on your teeth, it creates bacteria that can begin the tooth decay process. The bacteria produce a sticky film called plaque, which can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Following a meal or snack containing sugar, plaque can release acids that attack the tooth enamel.

 

 

Cavities

Over time, the acids produced by the bacteria that cause plaque can eat away at the tooth enamel, causing cavities.

Who is At-Risk for Tooth Decay?

Everyone. We all have bacteria in our mouths, which makes everyone a potential target for tooth decay. Most people will experience tooth decay several times throughout their life. Small children can pose a higher risk, since baby teeth are more vulnerable than adult teeth.

Cavity Treatment: Fillings and Other Treatments

The treatment for cavities is the same no matter who or what age you are: fillings. Fillings are comprised of materials that are placed in the "hole" of tooth decay in your tooth to repair the damage done by the cavity. If your tooth decay is extensive, a filling may not suffice and your tooth may need a crown or may need to be extracted.

How Do You Know When You Have A Cavity?

Promotion Image
Promotion Image
Promotion Image
Extreme Clean image

Aquafresh® Multi Action® Whitening can help brighten your smile in no time.

Learn More

Extreme Clean image

Get 75¢ off any one Aquafresh® product.

Get Coupon Now

Extreme Clean image

Check out more from Captain Aquafresh® to learn how to fight cavities.

Read More Articles

Extreme Clean image

Learn more about your oral health and how Aquafresh® helps keep you feeling clean.

Oral Care Tips