Dental caries are initiated by Steptococcus mutans, which is a constituent of the normal flora of the oral cavity. These bacteria cause sucrose to be degraded into fructose and glucan (a polymer of glucose). This glucan is water- insoluble and adheres to your teeth. Once there, it then binds to bacteria(such as Lactobacilli) and causes them to clump together. The result is the formation of dental plaques. The bacteria in these plaques then produce acids and proteolytic enzymes. The acids cause demineralization of tooth enamel. The proteolytic enzymes enter the teeth and break down the internal structures. Dental caries can be prevented through frequent teeth cleanings, plaque removal (scaling), limiting sucrose intake and regular flouride treatments.