Tooth decay occurs when the sugar we consume reacts with the bacteria in the plaque on our teeth. This reaction forms an acid that attacks the teeth and destroys enamel. This is what causes the tooth to break down and form a cavity, leading to a filling and in some cases an extraction.
30% of kindergarteners and 50% of 8-year-olds have visible signs of tooth decay. It is important to visit your dentist regularly to detect those cavities early when they are small before they become advanced. It is also important to reduce the amount of sugar taken in to prevent the cavities from forming or worsening.