Dental decay is multi-factorial, meaning that there are many factors that can lead to it. There are specific bacteria associated with tooth decay such as streptococcus mutans. This bacteria can actually be acquired from a child’s caregiver during the early years of infancy if a parent shares utensils, licks a pacifier before giving it to the child, and more. So if you are a parent who has lots of dental work completed yourself, you may want to talk to your pediatric dentist about how you can best prevent transferring this bacteria. Bacteria by itself won’t cause tooth decay, it needs sugar to make acid which in turn causes cavities in teeth. Sugary foods that stick to your teeth like gummy bears and taffy can significantly increase the risk of tooth decay. Large amounts of sugar are also found in sodas, sports drinks, and juices. Lastly plaque on our teeth increases the chance of getting dental decay. Remember to brush twice a day for two minutes, floss once a day, and rinse with mouthwash. A professional cleaning twice a year along with preventative treatments like fluoride and sealants help reduce the risk of tooth decay.