Sugar, saliva, and bacteria lead to a formidable combination
that may lead to tooth decay. After eating sugar, particularly
sucrose, and even within minutes of brushing your teeth, sticky
glycoproteins (combination of carbohydrate and protein molecule)
adhere to the teeth to start the formation of plaque. At the
same time millions of bacteria known as Streptococcus mutans
also adhere to the glycoprotein. Although, many oral bacteria
also adhere, only the S. mutans is able to cause cavities. In
the next stage, the bacteria use the fructose in a metabolism
process of glycolysis to get energy. The end product of
glycolysis under anaerobic conditions is lactic acid. The lactic
acid creates extra acidity to decrease the pH to the extent of
dissolving the calcium phosphate in the tooth enamel leading to
the start of a cavity. Preventative measures include frequent
brushing and flossing to prevent plaque build up. A diet rich in
calcium and fluoride in the water lead to stronger tooth enamel.
A diet of more complex