Tooth decay begins when acids in the mouth start dissolving the tiny enamel crystals that make up the outer surface of the tooth. Enamel is built from tightly packed mineral crystals that create a strong protective shield. When bacteria on the tooth surface break down sugars, they produce acids that lower the pH around the enamel. The acidic environment pulls essential minerals like calcium and phosphate out of the crystals. This causes the surface to become slightly softer even though it still