The human body is host to vast populations of residential bacteria, and many of them do a lot of good for your health in ways like helping digest food and discouraging the growth of harmful germs. However, every bunch has a few bad apples, and some of your oral bacteria can cause harm through infections like gum disease and tooth decay. Here’s a brief guide to how a newly discovered germ may assist in the formation of cavities and how you can protect your children’s teeth.
How Do Cavities Form?
Cavities are dental infections resulting from bacteria destroying part of a tooth’s enamel and colonizing the resulting wound. This usually happens due to accumulations of acid caused by excessive consumption of harsh foods and beverages like soda, wine, and hot sauce as well as the byproducts excreted by harmful oral bacteria when they consume sugar. Acid weakens enamel on contact and leaves it vulnerable to infection, and cavities will not get better without treatment from a qualified dentist.
Which Bacteria Form Cavities?
Scientists have long considered the bacteria Streptococcus mutans to be the primary culprit behind the formation of plaque and secretion of acid that causes most tooth decay. However, a recent study has found that another species called Selenomonas sputigena helps create structures within the plaque that allows it to provide better shelter to S. mutans as it produces acid.
How Can I Prevent Cavities?
Luckily, S. sputigena is quite vulnerable to the oral hygiene practices that the American Dental Association has been promoting for decades. To keep your child’s teeth healthy, remember to have them:
- Brush and floss every day
- Use antibacterial mouthwash regularly
- See their pediatric dentist for regular exams and cleanings twice a year
- Limit their consumption of sugary, starchy, and acidic foods and drinks
Don’t let oral microbes wreak havoc on your family’s smiles. By helping your children keep teeth clean and make smart eating decisions, you can keep their grins beautiful and infection-free for life.
About the Author
Dr. Sheh Vahid earned her dental degree at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and completed her pediatric specialty training at the University of Michigan. She is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Georgia Dental Association, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Her office in Marietta offers pediatric general, emergency, and restorative dental services. To learn more about protecting your child’s teeth from cavities, contact her office online or dial (678) 498-2878.