Tooth decay (also referred to as "caries" or "cavities") is a disease that affects most people during their lifetime. But unlike many other diseases, cavities are not life threatening and are preventable.

Here are some common questions and answers to help you better understand tooth decay and what you can do to avoid it:

What causes tooth decay?

Tooth decay occurs from frequent exposure to foods containing carbohydrates, starches and sugars such as sodas, candy, ice cream, milk, cakes and even fruits, vegetables and juices. Natural bacteria live in your mouth and form plaque, which interacts with deposits left on your teeth from sugary and starchy foods to produce acids. These acids damage tooth enamel over time by dissolving the mineral structure of teeth, producing tooth decay and weakening the teeth.

How are cavities prevented?

Simple saliva in your mouth acts as a buffer, but this natural defense is not enough to completely combat tooth decay. The best way to prevent cavities on a daily basis is to brush and floss regularly, using toothpaste and dental floss with fluoride, a natural substance that helps remineralize the tooth structure. Fluoride is also added to many community water supplies and even some bottled and canned beverages.

Who is at risk for developing cavities?

Because we all carry bacteria in our mouths, everyone is at risk for developing cavities. High-risk groups include children, senior citizens and anyone with a lot of fillings. If your diet is high in carbohydrates and sugary foods or if you live in a community without fluoridated water, you may also be at a greater risk for tooth decay.

What can I do to protect my teeth?

The best way to prevent cavities is to follow three simple steps:

• Reduce sweets and between-meal snacks.
• Brush after every meal and floss daily with particular attention to hard-to-clean areas. Cavities most often begin between teeth and in their fissures (fine cracks) and pits - the edges of the tooth crown (the exposed enamel covered portion) and gaps between teeth.
• Visit your dentist at least every six months for checkups and professional cleanings. Since cavities can be difficult to detect, a thorough dental examination is vital to healthy teeth.

Courtesy of the Academy of General Dentistry (www.agd.org).

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© 2007 Delta Dental Insurance Company

The AARP Dental Insurance Plan is administered by Delta Dental Insurance Company. The plan is insured by Delta Dental Insurance Company in AK, AL, DC, DE, FL, GA, LA, MD, MS, MT, NV, NY, PA, PR, TN, TX, UT, VI and WV (Policy DDIC1230), by Dentegra Insurance Company in AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MI, MN, MO, NC, ND, NE, NJ, NM, OH, OK, OR, RI, SC, SD, VA, WA, WI and WY (Policy DIC1230), and by Dentegra Insurance Company of New England in MA, NH and VT (Policy DICNE1230). Policy numbers may vary by state. AARP endorses the AARP Dental Insurance Plan. Delta Dental Insurance Company pays a fee to AARP and its affiliate for use of the AARP trademark and other services. Amounts paid are for general purposes of AARP and its members. AARP does not make dental plan recommendations for individuals. You are strongly encouraged to evaluate your needs before choosing a dental plan.