Cavity-Causing Bacteria: 7 Things You Need to Know

Like other bacteria, it is possible for cavity-causing bacteria to spread, meaning cavities can be contagious – surprising, right? To prevent the spread of bacteria and ultimately prevent cavities, here are seven things you should keep in mind about the causes of cavities.

1. Saliva Quality 

Saliva helps protect the teeth from harmful bacteria and it maintains a healthy pH level in the mouth. However, if saliva is too thick, it cannot properly do its job of washing off the teeth. Some medications like asthma inhalers decrease salivation and diseases like diabetes can cause thick saliva or limited production. You can maintain thin, good-quality saliva by brushing and cleaning between the teeth before bed and swishing with water after you eat during the day.

2. Teeth Crowding 

Crowded teeth create the perfect breeding ground for cavity-causing bacteria. Teeth that sit close together are harder to clean. Additionally, food is more easily trapped between crowded teeth and is often missed by standard brushing habits. 

3. Sugary Diet 

The bacteria that cause cavities thrive off sugar – literally. S mutans are one of the main bacteria responsible for cavities and this is because they have the unique ability to live in acidic environments by feeding off sugars. You can balance the pH levels of your mouth by swapping sugars with arginine or xylitol sweeteners. Our pH Control Products Guide has many helpful recommendations.

4. Vitamin D Deficiency 

Vitamin D has a key role in your immune system and it helps prevent tooth and gum diseases. Children with a vitamin D deficiency are proven to be at higher risk for tooth decay. Some foods rich in vitamin D include fatty fish, eggs, and pasture-raised animal products like butter, yogurt, and cheese. Vitamin D is also made in the body when you are in the sun so make sure to get outside and enjoy the fresh air!

5. Snoring and Sleep Health 

Breathing with your mouth open can contribute to an acidic microbiome and thickened saliva. People with sleep disorders like sleep apnea and snoring might be more at risk for cavities since they spend hours at night breathing with their mouths open. Getting treatment for sleep apnea will not only prevent cavities and oral disease, but also improve your overall health and wellness.

6. Bacterial Transmission 

Sharing cutlery, kissing, and not washing your hands throughout the day are all activities that put you more at risk for picking up harmful bacteria. Children are less aware of the spread of germs so this is especially important to remember when playing with your child or sharing food with them. Simply being mindful of the fact that you can contract cavities from other people can help you keep the cavities at bay.

7. Oral Hygiene Habits

Regular brushing and water-flossing/interdental care cleaning between the teeth with the proper techniques is possibly the most important thing you can do for your oral health. Many people are frustrated that they still get cavities even though they brush and floss but this is because many don’t realize they are brushing incorrectly. We can recommend a variety of TePe toothbrushes designed to get into the nooks and crannies of your teeth. We also encourage you to sign up for the Oral Health Coaching Course or Membership for tips on maintaining your oral health. 

Oral Health Coaching with Carrie Ibbetson, RDH

There are so many things you can do to boost your oral health and prevent cavities. It might seem overwhelming which is why we encourage you to check out the Oral Health Coaching program. Carrie breaks down her tips and tricks for good oral health habits and can help you feel more confident caring for your teeth.