Preventing decay

Bacteria in plaque breaks down the food you eat (particularly sugar) and converts it into acids that can dissolve the enamel of your teeth.

Saliva contains minerals that neutralise these acids and lubricants that help to remove food debris from your teeth. Tooth decay occurs when your saliva can't handle the number of acid attacks - so by eating less often, avoiding sugary foods and using fluoride toothpastes and mouthwashes you can help to protect your teeth.

Where does tooth decay occur?

Tooth decay occurs in three main areas:

1. On the smooth surfaces of your teeth

The smooth surfaces of your teeth come into regular contact with food and bacteria but by brushing regularly with a fluoride toothpaste you can significantly reduce the risk of this type of decay.

2. Between your teeth

Decay often occurs in the areas between your teeth, where your toothbrush can't reach. The most effective way to clean these areas is by using dental floss or dental tape.

3. On the chewing surface of your teeth

The tiny pits and fissures on the chewing surface of your teeth can attract microscopic food particles and bacteria. Often your toothbrush bristles are too large to reach these areas.

The dark lines in this picture are the fissures and the grey staining is the decay which shows in the picture below.

What can I do?

To help protect your teeth from decay, try following these steps:
1. Brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste after eating
2. Use a fluoride mouthwash
3. Floss your teeth regularly
4. Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production
5. Avoid eating between meals
6. Reduce your consumption of foods containing sugar