Decay Tooth Decay Tooth decay is the erosion of an area of tooth enamel. Bacteria in the mouth form a sticky substance called plaque. The plaque interacts with sugars in food to form an acid that dissolves the structure of a tooth, eventually producing a cavity and weakening the structure of the tooth.
Tooth decay is a disease that has affected man for thousands of years.
Examination of teeth in some ancient skulls shows signs of cavities. Today, dental health officials continue to educate the public about tooth decay and proper tooth care. Regular brushing and flossing, fluoride treatments, the addition of fluoride to the water supply, and use of dental sealants has greatly decreased the rate of tooth decay among American children. Over the last 20 years, the percentage of children with cavities in permanent teeth decreased more than 57 percent. New Options for Preventing Cavities Researchers at the University of Florida are looking for more ways to fight tooth decay.