Stage 1
The first stage is the formation of a clear, sticky coating on your teeth called plaque. This is caused by sugars and starches sticking to your teeth because of what you’re eating and what you’re inadequately cleaning. The bacteria then feed on this residual food and form plaque that could either stay on your teeth or harden to form tartar, which is much harder to remove and allows even more bacteria to proliferate.
Stage 2
The second stage is when the acid produced by these bacteria removes essential minerals in the enamel, which is the tough outer layer of your teeth. This erosion causes white spot lesions or demineralization in the enamel, which is the beginning of a cavity.
With enough space to go through, the bacteria then move onto the dentin, which is the next layer of your teeth. The dentin is softer and less resistant to acid and is connected to your pain receptors which could cause tooth sensitivity.
Stage 3
Afterward, we go into the third stage where the bacteria make their way into the innermost material of your tooth: the pulp. The pulp is a bunch of nerves and blood vessels that will get swollen and irritated because of the bacteria. This causes pain inside the tooth or even on the jaw when the nerves swell enough to press against the inside of your teeth.
How to Prevent Cavities
Cavities, like any other medical occurrence, has numerous risk factors that need to be considered. These are the things you might want to avoid to be able to prevent getting cavities.
Be particular in cleaning
For obvious reasons, inadequate brushing is one of the risk factors of cavities. Without proper oral hygiene, cavities are bound to happen.
Teeth at the back of your mouth are more susceptible to cavities not just because they’re harder to reach, and therefore harder to clean, but also because of their structure. Molars have a large surface with a lot of crevices where food could get stuck in.
Consider the food you eat
Certain food and drink can stick to the surface of your teeth for longer than others. These include sugary food like cake, cookies, dried fruit, hard candy, honey, and soda, as well as dairy products like milk and butter. These stick to your teeth and can’t be fully-washed away by saliva.
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