According to the National Institute of Dental Research, "Tooth decay (dental caries) can start at a very young age. All it takes is a susceptible tooth, bacteria in the mouth, and certain foods, especially sugar. So, it can begin as early as infancy with baby's first tooth and continue to occur throughout life. This all too familiar dental disease affects most of the population. Its high prevalence is especially disturbing because with just a little effort, most tooth decay can be prevented."

Decay-promoting bacteria that normally live in the mouth stick in colorless masses called plaque that accumulates around and between the teeth and in the pits and grooves of the chewing surfaces of back teeth.

The bacteria in plaque convert the sugars and starches in foods we eat and drink to acids. These acids eat away the hard tooth enamel and start to form cavities. The longer plaque is allowed to stay undisturbed on the tooth surfaces, the greater its ability to produce acids from foods.

Most decay in the crowns of the teeth develops in childhood and adolescent years. However, decay can and does recur around restorations (fillings, crowns, or bridges) in adults. In later life, as gums recede, the root surfaces of the teeth also become susceptible to decay.

You can counteract the conditions that foster tooth decay by strengthening tooth resistance with fluoride, sealing out tooth decay, eating or drinking sweets less often, practicing preventive dental care in infancy, and controlling harmful bacteria with proper brushing and flossing.

Because in all instances prompt treatment is required to save the teeth, visiting your dentist is an important part of protecting your oral health by preserving your teeth.