This disease has the power to change your life. Once it starts, your diet, speech, and overall quality of life could be its next victim.

Before I reveal the culprit you must understand something that many don’t know. Stay with me – knowledge is your ally in this fight.

It’s considered to be the world’s oldest and most widespread of diseases. It comes in second only to the common cold.

This disease begins its assault early. And it has achieved epidemic proportions among young children.

In fact, this disease affects more than one-fourth of U.S. children ages 2 to 15 and half those ages 12 to 15. Untreated, this epidemic can cause school absence, social problems, low weight, and poor appearance.

Children aren’t the only victims.

It’s a problem that also impacts U.S. adults. Ninety percent of those over age 40 encounter this disease.

The good news – it’s preventable. So, what are we talking about?

Ready?

Tooth decay. Dental caries (as it’s also known) is an infectious disease that damages the structure of your teeth.

Tooth loss and tooth pain are common symptoms. But, in extreme cases, the infection can spread even causing life-threatening health issues.

Your mouth is a complex eco-system. It would be mind boggling to see all the organisms that interact in your mouth. Some are good and some are bad.It’s the bad ones that should concern you. Primarily, we’re talking bacteria. Certain types of bacteria cause tooth decay. They attach themselves to the dental plaque (that sticky film) on the surface of your teeth.

Your #1 concern

The bacterial feeding process is intense and somewhat technical. Basically, they join forces to break down your tooth structure layer by layer.

This frontal assault on your tooth surface makes the tooth vulnerable. Once weakened, decay sets in.

More than brushing and flossing

We can recommend steps to determine your risk for tooth decay (dental caries). Effective prevention strategies include sealants, topical fluoride, special toothpaste, and mouth rinses.

Tooth decay (dental caries) is treatable. It can be eliminated once it’s treated as a disease and the individual causes (often unique to your mouth) can be understood.

Your goal (and ours): implement preventative strategies that keep your teeth free from decay throughout your lifetime.

Question: How did your knowledge increase about tooth decay? Comment.