A constant in life is tooth decay. No matter how well we care for our teeth, one will eventually become damaged by cavities, also known as caries and tooth decay. Cavities are a source of embarrassment for children and adults alike. However, they are nothing to be ashamed of, as cavities are a natural part of life. Nearly two-thirds of Americans will likely have at least one cavity by turning 18.While all cavities are caused by tooth decay, specific types have become more prevalent. Dental decay has been around for as long as human existence, and the word caries comes from the Latin word for rot.

When you have tooth decay in Beverly Hills, bacteria called Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacilli, and others excrete acid that damages the hard surfaces of the tooth, usually the enamel, cementum, dentine, and, in extreme cases, the pulp. Even if you wholly sterilized your mouth of all bacteria, you would quickly reinfect yourself through everyday day-to-day life.



Originally, cavities were believed to be caused by tooth worms, and it was only in the past few centuries that dentists readily identified the causes of tooth decay. Only about 60 years after we identified the bacteria responsible. People used to smoke various types of smoke, including mercury, to clear out cavities and kill toothworms. Fortunately, we have come a long way since then. Rather than using smoke and amalgam fillings, we now use composite fillings that can restore your teeth to their natural beauty.