How does plaque cause tooth decay?

• Plaque turns food particles stuck between the teeth into acid which attacks the tooth enamel. With repeated acid attacks,the enamel wears away and a cavity is formed. • Once a cavity forms, the decay spreads to the next layer- the dentine. But, if the cavity is filled by the dentist, the decay can be stopped. • If the cavity is not treated at the dentine stage, the decay spreads deeper into the pulp and can be very painful. • In the last stage, the decay spreads to the root and causes an abscess, accompanied by severe pain. At this stage only root canal treatment can save the tooth. In some cases, the tooth may have to be extracted.  more