The body requires a constant source of glucose. If the diet is low in carbohydrate, a greater percentage of dietary protein is used to provide glucose, which means less is available for the growth and repair of body tissues. Most foods contain some carbohydrate. The mouth contains bacteria on the surface of the teeth which can break down fermentable sugars in food to produce acids. The acid attacks the enamel of the teeth making them more porous, which is the first step in the process of tooth decay.
Children are particularly vulnerable.
Saliva in the mouth helps to neutralise the acid and also delivers the calcium and other minerals needed to rebuild the enamel. Provided that there is sufficient time between meals and the damage is not too great, the teeth can actually repair themselves. If, however, carbohydrate foods are eaten frequently, the teeth do not have time to repair the damage and the decay goes deeper into the tooth, finally reaching the nerve and causing pain. Brushing teeth regularly with a fluoride containing toothpaste is also an important factor in prevention of tooth decay. Children, adolescents and the elderly are at particular risk of dental caries.