Can You “Catch” Cavities?
Most people think cavities are simply the result of too much sugar or poor brushing. But there’s something most patients don’t realize:
Cavities are caused by bacteria—and those bacteria can be contagious.
Cavities themselves cant be passed from person to person, but the bacteria that cause them can be transmitted, especially among family members. Understanding this can help you protect your oral health and that of your children.
Cavities occur when specific types of bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar and produce acid that wears down your enamel over time. Two of the main bacteria responsible are:
- Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans)
- Streptococcus sobrinus (S. sobrinus)
These bacteria live in plaque and rapidly ferment sugars. The acid they produce is what creates holes in the teeth—known as cavities. The more sugar in your diet and the more plaque on your teeth, the more opportunity these bacteria have to cause decay.
Now comes the These cavity causing bacteria can actually spread within people especially those that share kissing or frequent mouth to mouth contact.
This is especially true from parent to child, often through common behaviors like:
- Sharing utensils
- Kissing on the lips
- Cleaning a pacifier with your mouth
Children whose parents have active tooth decay are more likely to carry cavity-causing bacteria themselves, particularly S. mutans. These bacteria can colonize a child’s mouth early in life and increase their risk of cavities significantly.
By contrast, when parents have healthy teeth and low levels of harmful bacteria, their children are less likely to be exposed.
How to Reduce Your Risk of Spreading or “Catching” Cavities
There are several effective steps you can take to reduce your risk and protect your family from cavity-causing bacteria:
1. Maintain a healthy oral microbiome
Your mouth contains both helpful and harmful bacteria. By supporting the balance of your oral microbiome, you can keep the harmful bacteria in check.
2. Reduce sugar intake
Simple sugars feed harmful bacteria. Less sugar means fewer acid attacks on your enamel and a lower risk of decay.
3. Brush and floss daily
Consistent brushing and flossing help remove plaque and prevent the buildup of bacteria that cause cavities.
4. Consider oral microbiome testing
At Sayva Dental, we offer saliva testing to measure your levels of cavity-causing bacteria. This is especially helpful if:
- You’re planning to have children
- You already have young children at home
- You’re struggling with recurring cavities and want to understand the underlying cause
If you’re concerned about your cavity risk—or your child’s—schedule a visit with us. We’re here to help you better understand your oral health and take proactive steps toward prevention.
Ready to take control of your dental health? Contact Sayva Dental to learn more about saliva testing and preventive care.
