Can Cavities be Contagious?
Would you be surprised to know that cavities are contagious? More specifically, the bacteria that cause cavities can be transmitted between people. There are many things you can do to protect your oral health and prevent the spread of cavities to other people. Let’s break it down.
What Causes Cavities?
Cavities are caused by specific bacteria like Streptococcus mutans (S mutans) and Streptococcus sobrinus (S sobrinus). Unlike other healthy bacteria in the mouth, these cavity-causing bacteria can survive in acidic environments with a low pH. They survive by breaking down and fermenting sugars, which is why it is important to avoid sugary foods and regularly brush your teeth. Over time, these harmful microorganisms kill other bacteria in the mouth and grow more rapidly, breaking down the enamel of the tooth.
How Are Cavities Spread?
Bacteria responsible for the formation of cavities can be spread in a variety of ways, including:
Mother to Child
Perhaps one of the more surprising sources of contagion is pregnant mothers. Women can pass down S mutants to their unborn children and newly born which makes oral health during pregnancy even more important at this time. If a mom has this cavity-causing bacteria (even if she is not showing symptoms or doesn’t have cavities) her child is 75% more likely to develop cavities early on.
Peer-to-Peer
Peer-to-peer transmission can happen between children, a child and their caregiver, or two adults. Kissing, sharing food, saliva transfer between children’s toys, and accidental spitting in close conversation can all transmit S mutans to other people. Transmission can also work its way down a chain. For example, a mother who kisses a partner with S mutans and then kisses her child could pass down the S mutans to them.
People and Pets
If you have a dog or love animals, it’s likely you’ve received a slobbery kiss from your beloved pet. Unfortunately, you could also be receiving exposure to bacteria that cause periodontal disease and cavities. Many people don’t realize this possibility because dogs and humans carry different diseases, but transmission can still occur. Make sure to brush your “fur baby’s” teeth regularly and wash your hands or face after your pet kisses you.
Who is at Risk for Cavities?
Maintaining a healthy oral biome can reduce your risk of cavities and prevent cavity-causing bacteria from spreading. There are two windows of activity that you should pay special attention to. These windows of activity are when S. mutants are most active in the mouth, meaning you are most at risk of developing cavities.
Between the ages of 19-31 months and 6-12 years, children are most at risk of developing cavities because teeth are erupting in the mouth and bacteria can more easily get into the enamel as they are forming. From 9-31 months, these are your baby teeth and from 6-12 years, these are your adult teeth coming in.
Another population that is affected by more frequent cavities are those with dry mouth issues. The following factors can affect both adults and children: mouth breathing, open mouth posture, and medication-induced dry mouth.
How to Prevent Cavities and the Spread of Bacteria
Some things you can do to maintain good oral health and prevent the spread of cavities are:
Brush and clean between teeth twice per day
Chew xylitol gum or arginine chews like BasicBites
Breathe through the nose to prevent the buildup of thick, acidic saliva
Limit carbs and sugars, especially sticky sweets
Do not share utensils or food
Disinfect and store toothbrushes separately from other people, and allow the bristles to dry after use
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