In order for someone to develop cavities, there are four things that will be needed:
1. tooth surface- no tooth = no cavity!
2. cariogenic bacteria- need to have bacteria to cause the issue
3. dietary component (fermentable carbohydrates, such as sucrose)- Yum! Those sticky candies are the best!
4. time- to do the job on the teeth
When all four of these are present, cavities can develop. Other factors can also come into play. The shape of the teeth, the oral hygiene habits and the buffering capacity of the saliva are some examples.
Date last modified: May 14, 2012.
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