First, a little bit about teeth. Teeth have four different kinds of tissue: enamel, dentin, pulp, and cementum (a protective layer over the roots). The enamel is the hardest substance in the body, tougher than both bone and concrete. Enamel has super-tight mineral bonds, and these bonds keep it solid, strong and healthy. When we eat, the carbohydrates in our food and drinks interact with the bacteria in our mouths to create acids. These acids lay siege to our teeth and actually start to break apart the bonds between the minerals. This process is called demineralization, and if it gets out of hand, we end up with the nasties – cavities – that take us down the road to the dentist.
