Rubber Egg: How Cavities Form

Erin had her first trip to the dentist last week so to prepare we had a bunch of lessons about dental care. She was so excited to go to the dentist and she was such a good girl. I think preparing beforehand really helped her to understand and not be afraid. This was one of her favorite experiments. 

 

Chemical reactions occur inside our bodies all the time. If your child has trouble remembering to brush her teeth, this activity is a great way to show her how cavities form.

Materials

• Egg
• Small container
• Vinegar
• Chicken bone

Directions

1. Have your child place an egg in a small container and cover it with vinegar.
2. Set the container aside for 24 hours.
3. Pour out the vinegar and gently pick up the egg. Squeeze it. The acid in the vinegar will have dissolved the minerals in the eggshell so that it's now soft and rubbery.
4. Repeat the experiment with a chicken bone. In 3-4 days, the bone will be rubbery.
5. The bacteria in your mouth produce acid that dissolves the enamel on your teeth in the same way that the acid in the vinegar dissolved the minerals in the eggshell and chicken bone. Remind your children to brush their teeth often to remove bacteria and keep their teeth healthy and strong.