Dentist revealed the true cause of caries

Sugar is not a direct cause of tooth decay, although it creates a favorable environment for bacteria that destroy tooth enamel. This was stated by Diana Nguyen, chief specialist in general clinical dentistry and associate professor at the University of California, San Francisco, in an interview with Popular Science on May 3.

As the specialist explained, the true mechanism of tooth decay is not related to sugar per se, but to the vital activity of bacteria. The main causative agents of caries are Streptococcus mutans and various species of Lactobacillus. These microorganisms feed on carbohydrates, including sugar and starch, and in the process of their breakdown they release lactic acid. It is she who destroys tooth enamel and provokes the formation of cavities.

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The body has its own defense mechanism: saliva gradually neutralizes acid and restores the normal pH level in the oral cavity. This process usually takes about 30 minutes. The problem occurs when a person eats or drinks too often, preventing saliva from doing its job.

Nguyen also debunked a common misconception about the benefits of brushing your teeth immediately after eating. According to her, in this case, the brush only makes the situation worse: the acid softens the enamel, and mechanical action only accelerates its damage. The optimal interval is at least 20-30 minutes after eating. For those who cannot wait, the specialist recommends rinsing their mouth with water.: this quickly reduces the acidity and neutralizes the harm.

Dentist Marina Kolesnichenko said on April 27 that brushing teeth more often than twice a day is not recommended. According to the expert, it is better to simply rinse your mouth with water after eating.: It helps to reduce acidity, stimulates saliva production and promotes natural cleansing of the oral cavity.