Are Cavities Contagious?

The second most common disease in the United States is tooth decay, affecting over 90% population. The first is the common cold. We all know how easy it is to catch a cold, but can you also catch cavities? It sounds pretty far-fetched, but is totally possible.

You Can Catch a Cavity?

Although you may not be able to catch an actual cavity, you will surely have the capacity to exchange contaminants with another individual pretty easily. When you transfer food or drinks or give kisses to a family member, there’s a very good chance that bacteria are transferred from the mouths of one another. That’s where the trouble is likely to begin. These bacteria are the culprit in wearing away at enamel and causing tooth decay. Multiple studies have found that mothers can pass these cavity-causing bacteria onto their children and even their spouse.

The Trouble with Bacteria

We are all very much acquainted with how easily diseases can spread, especially with modern medical advancements. But diseases also come with bacteria, which implies bacteria can also easily spread from a single individual to another. Bacteria are quite one of the main factors that cause cavities as they eat away the protective enamel of teeth, leading to decay.

When you come into contact with someone else’s saliva, you’re also exposed to their bacteria. Some common ways for bacteria to transfer from one person to another:

• Sharing a spoon, fork, or straw
• Biting off the same piece of food
• Kissing
• Using someone else’s toothbrush

Regular Dental Appointments Help

Children and people with compromised immune systems are particularly in danger of oral infections resulting from harmful oral bacteria. By maintaining regular appointments with your dentist, you can help protect your smile against such threats. You must also refrain from carrying bad multicellular bacteria from one individual to another.

• Be mindful of what you share and with whom it’s shared. Even something as innocent as lip balm can transfer germs and bacteria.
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once per day.
• Make sure to facilitate the production of saliva. Salivary secretions can help keep bacteria away and mitigate decay. Drink around-the-clock water, and consider chewing gum containing sugar-free sweeteners to stimulate saliva production.

The easiest way to prevent plaque and tartar from returning is to keep your gums and teeth healthy, see your dentist regularly, and ask about their procedure for professional cleanings. Whichever requires attention, your dentist will treat them and help you fend off tooth decay.