Comeaux Dental of The Woodlands & Spring in Texas will take a deeper dive into the causes of cavities. This is for both parents of young children and adults who are interested in a better understanding of these conditions. Since there is no way to restore large amounts of missing or damaged teeth structure, treatment for cavities is focused on prevention.

What are Dental Caries (Cavities), and how do they work?

Dental caries, or Latin "rot", also known as tooth decay, or a "cavity", is a bacterial infection that results in the destruction and demineralization of the hard tissues (enamels, dentins, and cementum) of the teeth. Acid is produced by bacteria from food debris that has accumulated on the tooth's surface. The following factors can cause demineralization of teeth: Carbohydrates, plaque, and dry mouth are more common than factors that help to remineralize teeth (i.e. Tooth decay can occur due to the presence of saliva, calcium, fluoride, and saliva. Dental decay is the most common childhood chronic disease. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, 60% of children will experience tooth decay before they turn five.