Mind & Body

Your Mouth Contains A World Of Bacteria

Sugar alone won't eat away at the enamel of your teeth and cause cavities. The 600-plus types of bacteria living in your mouth won't do it alone either. The combination of sugar, saliva, and the acid that bacteria in your mouth secrete will dissolve your teeth.

Key Facts In This Video

  1. Your mouth is home to billions of bacteria. 00:14

  2. After eating, bacteria secrete the stuff they don't need, which is the acid that creates cavities. 00:25

  3. The acid from bacteria in your mouth mixes with saliva and sugar to dissolve enamel. 00:35

Written by Curiosity Staff August 26, 2015
