It’s no secret that brushing your teeth and limiting your sugar intake goes a long way in preventing tooth decay, but what else do you know about this common oral health problem? Test your knowledge below!

TRUE OR FALSE?

1. Cavities always hurt.
2. Bacteria present in the mouth
transform sugars into acids.
3. Pregnant women have a higher
risk of developing cavities.
4. Dental pulp is located just
beneath the enamel.
5. Tooth decay is rare in children
aged five and under.
6. A cavity can lead to an abscess.

7. When decay reaches the tooth’s
dentine layer, a common symptom is sensitivity.

ANSWERS

1. False. Cavities generally don’t
hurt during the early stages
when only the enamel is affected. The typical sharp pain develops once the cavity reaches the
dental pulp.
2. True. Once transformed, the
acids weaken the enamel of your
teeth, increasing the risk of cavities. This is why sugar is your
teeth’s number-one nemesis!
3. True. Saliva acts like a natural
cleanser, most notably by neutralizing acidic compounds. However,

its antimicrobial properties
are weakened during pregnancy,
and the risk of developing cavities rises as a result.
4. False. Dental pulp is located at
the heart of the tooth and is the
last part to get infected. Cavities
spread inward, affecting the
enamel, the dentine and, finally,
the pulp.
5. False. Cavities are most common
in kids younger than five, as their
teeth are still developing.
6. True. If tooth decay spreads to
the dental pulp, an abscess is
likely to form.
7. True. Sensitivity is a common
symptom of tooth decay and can

cause unpleasant pangs of pain.