The Unfortunate Truth
Most people are probably not aware that tooth decay can begin within 20 minutes of eating, drinking, or snacking, but it’s an unfortunate truth. They also may not know that, while periodontal disease is the major cause of adult tooth loss, tooth decay is the major cause of childhood tooth loss. Our mouths are naturally rife with bacteria, but some oral bacteria are harmful to your teeth, especially when they come into contact with sugars and starches. Bacteria feed on sugars and starches and in the process secrete acids. The bacteria, acids, left-over food particles, and saliva form a sticky film called plaque. If not removed, plaque eats away at your teeth causing decay. If you knew this, would you put your child to bed with a bottle of sugary milk or juice? Probably not.