The inside of your mouth is full of bacteria. The bacteria found there ferment dietary sugars in food to acids. When bacteria, acid, and food particles join together, they promote plaque formation. Plaque clings to your teeth and attacks the outermost layer of your tooth, the enamel. If dental caries are not taken care of, the tooth will eventually be lost or require extensive dental work.
Proper dental hygiene-brushing teeth, using mouth wash, flossing, and chewing sugar-free gum-can dramatically reduce dental caries and keep your smile sparkling. Best of all, proper dental hygiene will keep you out of the dentist's hot seat.