Question: What is Tooth Decay?
Answer: Decay is the destruction of tooth structure. Decay occurs when plague, the sticky substance that forms on teeth, combines with the sugars and / or starches of the foods that we eat. This combination produces acids that attack tooth enamel. The best way to prevent tooth decay is by brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
If decay reaches the pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be necessary to save the tooth.
Eating healthy foods and avoiding snacks and drinks that are high in sugar are also ways to prevent decay.
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