Tooth decay is extremely common in people of all ages. While brushing and flossing twice a day minimizes your risk of getting a cavity, good oral hygiene can’t protect against tooth decay that’s spread from another person.
Yup, you read that right. Not only can cavities spread inside your own mouth, but the bacteria that causes cavities can be transferred from one person’s mouth to another. Even if you’re doing everything you can to avoid cavities, you can still be at risk. Here’s what you need to know.
How are cavities formed?
Cavities are tooth decay caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that clings to teeth. When plaque sticks to teeth, it releases toxins that eat away at the protective tooth enamel. Eventually, this deterioration results in tiny holes in their teeth. These are cavities.
Without treatment, cavities continue to grow. They can even spread to other teeth in your mouth. If a cavity grows large enough, it puts you at risk of early tooth loss and gum disease.
How do cavities spread between people?
The bacteria that causes cavities is spread through saliva. If you exchange saliva with another person who has cavities, that cavity-causing bacteria can end up growing in your own mouth. Believe it or not, cavities spread from one person to another more easily than you think.
How can I prevent cavities from spreading?
Here are three common ways cavities are spread from person to person.
1. AVOID SHARING FOOD AND DRINKS
Each time you eat and drink, your saliva ends up all over your utensils and glasses. That’s why most of us avoid sharing food and drinks when they know the other person is sick or feeling unwell – we don’t want their virus or infection to spread to us.
Much like the way viruses spread through saliva, so does cavity-causing bacteria. Something as small as sharing a drink with a friend leaves you vulnerable to the bacteria that causes cavities.
2. STOP STORING TOOTHBRUSHES TOGETHER
Many families store their toothbrushes together. While this may be convenient, it’s not hygienic. If you or a loved one has tooth decay, the saliva left behind on your toothbrush can carry bacteria over to the other toothbrushes in your home.
You can significantly minimize your child’s risk of cavities by storing your family’s toothbrushes in different containers. In addition, make sure you’re replacing your family’s toothbrushes at least once every 3-4 months to prevent the buildup of bacteria.
3. BE CAREFUL WITH KISSING
Because kissing is a direct exchange of saliva, it’s one of the most common causes of cavities spreading from person to person. Babies, in particular, don’t have fully developed immune systems, which increases their risk of bacterial infections.
If you or a close family member has tooth decay, try to avoid kissing your baby directly on the mouth to prevent cavities from spreading.
4. REDUCE YOUR BABY’S EXPOSURE
A lifetime of good oral health starts early. As a parent, you can reduce your child’s exposure by taking care of your own dental needs and reducing the cavity-causing bacterial load so when you do kiss your baby their risk is lowered. You should also avoid common practices like giving your child a bit of food off of your fork, or cleaning off your baby’s pacifier by sticking it in your own mouth. Both of these activities easily transfer cavity-causing bacteria to your baby’s mouth.
And of course, bring your baby in for regular dental exams and cleanings. Schedule their first visit when their first tooth appears, and no later than their first birthday.
Listen to Dr. Paul explain how to reduce your child’s risk of cavities!
Stellar Kids Dentistry is a dental practice that thrives on dedication to children, pediatric excellence, and a focus on prevention. Located in Mukilteo, Everett, and Mill Creek, the staff and dentists at Stellar Kids Dentistry are committed to giving your child the best possible age-appropriate oral care. They have years of training for working with children of all ages, take their time to make children feel comfortable before any procedure, and are careful to respond to individual needs by using appropriate relaxation and sedation techniques. Both Dr. Kahlon and Dr. Lamba have special-needs training and are experienced in working with children with autism and ADHD. If you’re looking for a dentist that will partner with you to give your child the best care possible and set them up for a lifetime of good oral health, contact Stellar Kids Dentistry today!
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