Tooth decay

High school (ages 12+)
Human Body

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/tooth-decay

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the causative microorganisms?Primarily Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus species
2. What is the critical ph for enamel demineralization?Approximately 5.5
3. What causes tooth decay?Bacteria that live in plaque on your teeth eat sugar from foods and drinks. They make acids that lower the pH and wear away the enamel, which is the hard outer layer of the tooth.
4. Why do we see white spots on teeth?White spots are the first sign of decay. They happen when the enamel starts losing minerals but the surface is still smooth. With fluoride and good brushing, the spots can sometimes be fixed.

Demineralization: The loss of minerals from tooth enamel caused by acid produced by oral bacteria.
Remineralization: The process of restoring minerals to tooth enamel, often aided by fluoride and saliva.
Biofilm: A community of microorganisms, like plaque, attached to a surface.
Cariogenic: Tending to cause tooth decay.