Children's dentist Karen Chu shares an info bite - basic information parents can share when their kids ask the question, 'What is a cavity' or about tooth decay. - Phoenix Kids Dentist Karen Chu.

1. What Is A Cavity?
Phoenix Kids’ Dentist Karen Chu

2. What Is A Cavity?
A cavity is a hole in the tooth that is caused
by decay.

3. What Is Decay?
Decay is the destruction of tooth structure
caused by infection (usually bacterial).

4. How Does Decay Occur?
Decay occurs when plaque (the sticky film
that forms on teeth) combines with the
sugars and/or starches of the food we eat.

5. How Does That Make A Cavity?
This combination produces acids that attack
tooth enamel creating the hole.

6. What Prevents A Cavity?
The basics to prevent tooth decay are:
brushing twice a day, flossing every day
and getting regular dental check ups.

7. What Prevents A Cavity?
Substitute healthy foods for starchy junk
food (and drinks) that are high in sugar.
That will get tooth decay on the run!

8. What Prevents A Cavity?
Rinse your mouth with water right after
eating anything acidic. Don't brush for 30
minutes while the teeth are still acid soft!

9. How Does The Dentist
Help To Prevent Cavities?
The Dentist will deep clean your teeth and
check your gums to make sure there is no
hidden decay hiding out to make a hole later.

10. How Does The Dentist
Help To Prevent Cavities?
The dentist can also apply a sealant to
protect the teeth from those times that acid
food and drinks are just too good to resist!

11. Dentist Karen Chu Shares