Most know that a cavity is a stained soft spot on a tooth. When the area is left untreated a toothache may occur.  Do you know what causes tooth decay?  Special kinds of tiny bacteria make a home out of a tooth and cause a cavity.  They eat any kind of sugar or grain food and make acid byproducts.  This acid dissolves the tooth structure it rests on, forming a cavity.  This entire process happens in the plaque around your teeth.  Everyday it forms, and multiple times a day, it should be removed.  This is more difficult in the holiday season where “grazing” on treats is rampant.  It takes the average person 20 minutes to neutralize the acid and get rid of the food for the bacteria.  Imagine if you ate or drank something every 20 minutes!  Your cavity bacteria would call all their friends for the feast.  The bottom line: Brush after every meal day to get rid of the plaque, and minimize snacks between meals.  After any snack or flavored drink, rinse your mouth with tap water. 

-Authored by Dr. Eric Hogan