Question

To prevent tooth decay, it is advised to brush our teeth regularly. Why?

Answer 1

- Tooth decay occurs when the pH of the mouth decreases below 5.5.
- Certain bacteria and food particles get attached to the tooth enamel forming a clear and sticky substance known as plaque.
- These types of bacteria feed on the sugar in our food, grow their colony, and produce acids responsible for the corrosion/decay of the tooth enamel.
- To prevent tooth decay, cleaning of teeth by toothpaste (a base such as calcium fluoride) is required to neutralise the effect of acid in the mouth.