Tooth Development and Cavities

Questions and Answers

80%

92% (correct)

100%

95%

Beeswax (correct)

Flint

Water

Wood

Genes that cause weaker enamel (correct)

Lack of sugar consumption

Frequent toothbrushing

Drinking more water

To strengthen teeth and encourage enamel growth Signup and view all the answers

Cutting down on sugar intake and practicing good oral hygiene Signup and view all the answers

Sugars Signup and view all the answers

Enamel Signup and view all the answers

Because they ate root vegetables, nuts, and grains Signup and view all the answers

Streptococcus mutans Signup and view all the answers

It provides a foundation for recognizing how and why cavities can occur Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Understanding tooth development is crucial for recognizing how and why cavities occur, and for preventing and treating dental issues effectively.
Tooth development forms a foundation for maintaining dental health from an early age.

Cavities are small holes or deteriorations that form on the surfaces of teeth due to bacteria that naturally reside in the mouth.
These bacteria thrive on sugars found in foods and drinks, converting them into acids through a metabolic process.
The acid produced subsequently attacks the enamel, the teeth's tough protective outer coating.
Repeated exposure to these acids can erode the enamel, eventually leading to the formation of cavities.

Archaeological remains show that ancient humans had cavities in their teeth, likely caused by the same tiny microbes that live in our mouths.
These microbes are present from birth and accumulate on our teeth as we eat, depending on our diet.
Diets high in sugary foods cause an explosion of bacteria, leading to cavities.
Ancient humans may have consumed low-sugar diets, but their teeth were still exposed to sugars from carbohydrates in root vegetables, nuts, and grains.

Ancient humans used sharpened flint to remove rotten teeth and made rudimentary drills to smooth out holes left behind, as well as beeswax to plug cavities.
Today, we have more sophisticated techniques and tools to treat cavities, including tooth fillings and fluoride in toothpaste and water supplies.
The best way to avoid a cavity is by cutting down on sugar intake and practicing good oral hygiene.

The Industrial Revolution led to an increase in refined sugar consumption, resulting in a surge in cavities.
Today, 92% of American adults have had cavities in their teeth.
High sugar consumption is a major contributor to cavities, although some people may be more susceptible due to genetic weaknesses.
Besides reducing sugar intake, using fluoride, practicing good oral hygiene, and avoiding sugary, starchy, and sticky foods can help minimize cavities.