Can I Catch A Cavity?

We have heard of catching a cold; but have you heard of catching a cavity?

The fact of the matter is that the cavity-causing bacteria can be passed from person-to-person too!

What Causes Cavities?

While sugary treats often take the blame for causing cavities, the real culprits for tooth decay are bacteria. Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus are bacteria which stick to our teeth and eat food particles left behind from our last meal, producing acids which threaten gum health and cause tooth decay. Plus!  Just like cold-causing bacteria, these bacteria like to travel.

How Does the Bacteria Travel?

Whether it’s through sharing a drink or kissing a loved one, cavity-causing bacteria can be passed from person-to-person the same way many other bacterial infections can. Studies have shown that “catching a cavity” is not only possible, it happens far more often than you might think.

One of the most common transmissions is from parent and child. Cavity-causing bacteria is commonly passed along to a child when a mother or father tastes food to ensure it’s not too hot or when he or she “cleans” a pacifier by sucking on it before handing it over.

How Can I Reduce The Spread of Bacteria?

What can you do to reduce your risk of transmitting these cavity-causing bacterias to your child or someone else?

• Floss and brush frequently.
• Chew sugar-free gum—this promotes saliva production and washes away plaque and bacteria.
• Be mindful of drinks and eating utensils you’re sharing and the risks that are involved.
• Be aware of other behaviors which may spread these bacteria.

Love To Help!

Nobody wants to inadvertently “catch a cavity.”  At Grove Smiles Dentistry in Coconut Grove, FL, our family practice is committed to providing you with the best information possible to help you and your family create a healthy and resilient smile.

Any questions?  Our team invites you to contact our office today for more information or to schedule an appointment.

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This entry was posted on Thursday, November 5th, 2015 at 6:22 pm and is filed under Dental Articles. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.