How to avoid cavities Published Feb. 12, 2019 By Tech. Sgt. Jonna Berry 20th Dental Squadron SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- There are more than 500 types of bacteria found in the oral cavity; only two of which are the main contributors of cavity formation, Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus.As an infant, you are not born with these bacteria. It is not until someone transfers these bacteria to you, either from taste testing food, sharing drinks or even a kiss, that these bacteria enter your mouth. Having theses bacteria completes the equations for cavity formation. Bacteria plus carbohydrates equals acid demineralization.When the saliva breaks the food down it is now easily metabolized by the bacteria, resulting in acid production which weakens the enamel of your tooth. Acid production continues until carbohydrates are cleared from the mouth.This causes demineralization, the weakening of the enamel. Chips and other processed foods that become soft once broken down are worse because it adheres to the tooth surface more readily than a mint or other hard candy. All carbohydrates can demineralize tooth enamel. If the plaque and food particles are thick on the tooth, saliva cannot penetrate it to buffer the acid. Think of a time when you ate blueberry cobbler or cake. This is perhaps the worst combination because you have sugar and a sticky starch adhering to the tooth. Sugar does cause cavities, but so do other carbohydrates as long as the cavity-causing bacteria is present.A recent survey showed that 90% of individuals surveyed believed that sugar causes cavities.The truth is, carbohydrates, or sugars, are just one of many factors that create the perfect recipe for cavity formation. Carbohydrates, bacteria and a susceptible tooth are the three ingredients required for getting cavities.Carbohydrates are a large group of organic compounds that are found in many of the foods we consume. Simple sugars and starches are two types of carbohydrates.Simple sugars are found in food and beverages such as candy, soda and fruit juice. These sugars are metabolized by bacteria, which then release acids that cause demineralization and cavitation in tooth structure.While many of us are aware of the damage simple sugars can cause to our teeth, we might not realize how damaging starches are as well. Starches include foods like potatoes, pasta, rice and bread. Foods such as potato chips or breads can form thick and sticky compounds that adhere to teeth and can be just as detrimental to teeth as sugar-laden candy are known to be. Teeth are the final ingredient in the cavity recipe. Without teeth, you cannot get a cavity. For the most part, teeth are self-cleansing. They are perfectly contoured and shaped to deflect foods away and are smooth enough to prevent adhesion of food.In addition, the tongue and saliva assist in the natural ability to keep teeth clean. However, teeth often contain deep grooves on the biting surface and a difficult to reach contact area between teeth. These areas are notorious for food adhesion and cavity formation, since the tongue and saliva cannot naturally effectively cleanse those areas. A strategy to prevent cavity formation is to focus on interrupting any single factor or a combination of any of the three factors of tooth demineralization. For example, reducing the amount and frequency of carbohydrate intake, including both simple sugars and starches, will reduce the amount of nutriment bacteria have available to metabolize and form acids.Mouthwash, toothpaste, xylitol gum and fluoride all have some measure of an antibacterial effect and, consequently, can reduce the amount of bacteria found the mouth. Less bacteria means less chances of cavity formation.Areas where teeth are known to be susceptible can be fortified.Deep grooves can be covered by a small thin white resin material, called a sealant, while areas between the teeth can be accessed by daily flossing or toothpicks to dislodge both food and bacterial plaque. A fluoride mouthwash can be used to increase the hardness of tooth structure and prevent demineralization. In conclusion, cavity formation is fueled by more than just simple sugars. By understanding the process, you can better prevent cavities from forming in your own mouth.For further consultation or questions regarding dental cavities or oral health topics, contact the 20th Dental Squadron at (803) 895-6988.