Dental caries, or cavities, are caused by the way sugar affects the environment inside your mouth. When you consume sugar, it acts as a key factor that changes how certain bacteria behave. These microorganisms can then stick to your teeth more easily and form the layers of plaque that lead to decay.
To fight this, several different strategies are used in public health. These include reducing sugar intake, applying fluoride, using probiotics, and practicing ecological management. Each method aims to balance the oral microbiome and limit the growth of harmful bacteria like Streptococcus mutans.
Because this is a narrative review, it summarizes existing theories rather than providing new clinical trial data or specific statistics. It provides a framework for how these different methods work together to prevent cavities. You should talk with your dentist to determine which prevention plan is best for your specific oral health needs.
