This message from Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Provo is about bacteria and cavities. Your mouth has 200-300 types of bacteria, but most of them do not cause tooth decay.
Bacteria that cause decay are in the mutans streptococcus family. They mix with sugar to create a powerful acid. The acid reduces the calcium in tooth enamel. When the bacteria remains on teeth, it produces 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.
Young children whose teeth are forming are at a heightened risk. 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 cavities are so common that some parents believe it’s just part of growing up. It isn’t!
At Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Provo we strongly recommend daily brushing with fluoridated toothpaste. Don’t forget to floss! Our services include family and cosmetic dentistry. Call for an appointment today!
Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:
801-374-0070
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604
