wiz-icon
MyQuestionIcon
MyQuestionIcon
1
You visited us 1 times! Enjoying our articles? Unlock Full Access!
Question

Why does tooth decay start when the pH of mouth is lower than 5.5?

Open in App
Solution

Tooth enamel is made up of calcium phosphate and is the hardest part of the body. When the pH in the mouth goes down and becomes 5.5, it is strong enough to corrode the enamel of the tooth. The mouth turns acidic because the bacteria present in it produce acids by breaking down sugar and food particles left behind in it after eating.

flag
Suggest Corrections
thumbs-up
3
Join BYJU'S Learning Program
similar_icon
Related Videos
thumbnail
lock
Teeth - Concept
BIOLOGY
Watch in App
Join BYJU'S Learning Program
CrossIcon