If you’re one of the 90% of American adults over 20 who has had a cavity, you may have wondered how you got it in the first place. You’re not alone!
While cavities themselves aren’t contagious, the bacteria that cause cavities can be spread from person to person.
Understanding how these bacteria are transmitted can help you practice better oral hygiene and protect yourself and your loved ones.
What exactly is a cavity and how do they form?
A cavity, also called tooth decay or dental caries, is damage to your tooth’s structure, including the enamel, dentin, and pulp. Cavities occur when acids produced by bacteria wear away the tooth.
Here’s how it works: Bacteria, usually Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacilli, create plaque. These bacteria then feed on sugars and carbs in your mouth, producing acids that weaken the enamel.
In the early stages, this process can sometimes be reversed with fluoride treatments and good oral hygiene.
The role of bacteria: How cavity-causing microbes spread
Cavities are the result of bacterial action, so it might not surprise you to learn that they can be passed from person to person.
Primary bacteria involved
While your mouth is home to a whopping 200 to 300 different types of bacteria, some are more likely to cause cavities than others. Streptococcus mutans is a primary culprit when it comes to tooth decay.
How the bacteria spread
Cavity-causing bacteria make their way from person to person via saliva. The most common ways these bacteria spread include sharing utensils, cups, and toothbrushes, as well as kissing.
Researchers have found that catching a cavity is not only possible, it happens a lot.
Specific scenarios: Mother to child and kissing
Two common scenarios where cavity-causing bacteria can spread are from mother to child and through kissing.
Mother-to-child transmission
It’s easy to pass bacteria from yourself to your child, especially when your child is a baby.
Older research suggested that the bacteria that cause tooth decay can be passed from a mother to her baby, so you may want to maintain excellent oral hygiene during pregnancy to minimize the potential for bacterial transfer.
It’s also a good idea to avoid sharing utensils with your baby or tasting food before you feed them.
Transmission through kissing
Because kissing involves frequent close contact and the exchange of saliva, it’s another way to spread oral bacteria. The more frequent the kissing, the more likely the bacterial transfer.
Prevention Strategies: Reducing the Risk of Spreading Cavity-Causing Bacteria
Although most of us will encounter cavity-causing bacteria at some point, there are ways to minimize your risk of developing cavities and infecting others.
Oral Hygiene Practices
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss every day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria in your mouth.
Lifestyle Adjustments
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks.
- Eat a balanced diet for overall health and stronger teeth.
- Chew sugar-free gum with xylitol to stimulate saliva production.
Professional Dental Care
- Get regular dental checkups and cleanings.
- Early detection and treatment of cavities can prevent further damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a tooth cavity spread?
Yes, cavities can “spread” in a sense. They don’t spread like a virus, but the bacteria responsible for causing cavities can spread to other teeth in your mouth. If you have active decay in one tooth, it’s more likely that other teeth will develop cavities as well if you don’t improve your oral hygiene.
Can you kiss someone with a cavity?
Yes, you can kiss someone with a cavity, but it’s important to be aware that the bacteria that cause cavities can be transmitted through saliva. Frequent kissing, especially with someone who has poor oral hygiene, could increase your risk of developing cavities over time.
Can you pass a tooth infection to someone else?
While you can’t directly “pass” a tooth infection like you would a cold, the bacteria that cause tooth infections can be transmitted. If someone has a compromised immune system or poor oral hygiene, they may be more susceptible to developing an infection if exposed to these bacteria.
Can cavities be spread from person to person?
Cavities aren’t directly “spread” like a contagious illness, but the bacteria that cause them can be transmitted through saliva. Sharing utensils, drinks, or even kissing can transfer these bacteria. However, whether or not someone develops a cavity depends on several factors, including their oral hygiene, diet, and saliva composition.
Wrapping Up
While you can’t “catch” a cavity like a cold, the bacteria that cause cavities are definitely contagious. That’s why good oral hygiene and healthy lifestyle choices are so important.
By taking care of your teeth and gums, you’ll not only protect your own smile but also reduce the risk of spreading cavity-causing bacteria to others. So brush, floss, and see your dentist regularly for a healthy, happy mouth!