There are 2 stages by which the food is broken down. 1. The mechanical breakdown. Takes place in the mouth by the action of the teeth.
2. The chemical breakdown of the chewed up food by the saliva.
INCISOR- CUTTING. (FRONT TEETH)
CANINE- TEARING/PIERCING (beside front teeth)
PREMOLAR - GRINDING (beside back teeth)
MOLAR- GRINDING (back teeth)
plaque = bacteria + food bacteria consume food, producing acid which eats into the enamel causing tooth decay.
to prevent tooth decay:
*diet- eat food rich in calcium, vitamin c and low in sugar
*fluoride in toothpaste- helps strengthen the enamel
*brushing teeth- prevents the build up of plaque
*visit the dentist- check the condition of the teeth