Good oral health contributes to a healthy smile, teeth and gums. On the other hand, poor dental hygiene can put you at risk for tooth decay, also known as tooth decay or rotting tooth. Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars in foods and beverages. These bacteria produce acid, which damages the outer surface of the tooth (the enamel).
Saliva helps repair this damage, but if there is more damage than repair over time, it leaves a cavity or “hole” in the tooth. Tooth decay in the primary (baby) teeth of young children is also called early childhood tooth decay. Cavities is another word for tooth decay. It occurs when a child's teeth come into contact with sugary foods and beverages often and for long periods of time.
These drinks include fruit juices, soft drinks, and other sugary drinks.
