[Shelby25]

It is a good habit to brush our teeth twice daily. Children must be inculcated with this habit ever since they are young. Brushing and flossing must be done regularly and preferably after every meal.

If brushing is not done properly, bacterial plaque builds up. Plaque is a sticky, yellow, translucent substance that covers our teeth. The plaque bacteria can be removed by brushing at least twice a day and flossing once a day.

Foods we consume contain sugars and starch. Certain bacteria present in the oral cavity are more likely to cause harm because they can use the sugars and starches. Bacteria called streptococci mutans and lactobacillus are two types of harmful bacteria. There is a small amount of these bacteria found normally in our mouth. But sometimes they may be present in higher levels and cause harm to our teeth in the form of dental Caries.

Bacteria are also responsible for bad breath. The bacteria in plaque process food particles and produce acids and other waste products, some of which have a foul smell. These may be sulfur containing compounds that are produced as a result of their metabolic activity on the foods that we consume. As plaque builds up on teeth, it makes teeth look very dirty.

Molars have deep grooves and pits. So they are preferred sites for Caries. Children are particularly susceptible to dental caries. One way to prevent this type is proper brushing. A visit to the dentist will also do a lot of good. An initial treatment can prevent further damage to the teeth.