Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is one of the most common human diseases. Bacteria in the plaque combines with dietary sugar and produces acids. These acids attack tooth structure, causing loss of calcium and producing weak spots through which bacteria can enter the tooth and continue to destroy it. This process is called demineralisation. Fluoride containing toothpastes and mouthrinses can help reverse the process of demineralisation by replacing the lost calcium in the tooth structure. This process is called remineralisation. Fluoride is also very effective in killing acid-producing bacteria before it can attack.
THE STAGES OF TOOTH DECAY
  The first
indication of tooth decay are white spots on the enamel caused by the
loss of calcium. |
 
If the
demineralisation process outruns the natural remineralisation process,
the lesion grows and a cavity is formed. |
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and eventually the tooth must be extracted by the
dentist. |
