ABSTRACT
The teeth are important structures that represent the first line of the food digestion and absorption process. This process starts in the mouth when food is chewed by the teeth. When teeth are damaged, it is difficult to chew food, causing gastrointestinal disorders. Even if only one of the 32 teeth is lost, there is a change in the pressure applied to each tooth, damaging the health of the entire mouth and leading to abnormalities such as those of the gums and jawbones. With the increasing standard of living, the interest in health has also been growing among many people. However, dental health remains neglected in most cases. In the last two decades, the incidence of tooth decay in South Korean children has increased by at least four times due to the spread of fast food, carbonic acid drinks, and soft and light food-centered dietary habits. After eating food, carbohydrate debris often gets stuck in the gaps between the teeth. Oral bacteria act on these carbohydrates leading to decay (fermentation) and acid production. This acid dissolves the mineral component on the surfaces of the teeth, leading to dental caries. The continuous growth of oral bacteria on tooth surfaces leads to plaque formation and inflammation around the gums. In general, 1 g of plaque contains approximately 200 million bacteria, and it is a major cause of gingivitis, periodontitis, and cavities.
