Are Cavities Contagious??

Are cavities contagious? The answer might surprise you!

Parents are usually shocked to learn that their children, despite great brushing and flossing, develop cavities at a very young age. One of the reasons could be that cavities are actually contagious! It might surprise you to learn that the bacterial cause of tooth decay can be passed from person to person. 

Cavities are caused by a bacteria called streptoccus mutans. This bacteria feeds on food and debris that is left behind. It then releases an acid that destroys the hard outer layer of enamel. When this acid and bacterial byproduct builds, it creates plaque that contains even more acid, harmful for your teeth. No matter what you eat, cavities will not form without the help of this bacteria. This acid byproduct left behind from the bacteria causes the pH in your mouth to drop. A higher acidity level in your saliva also causes continual wear on your enamel. So what is the culprit of tooth decay? streptoccus mutans. No one is immune to this bacteria and some individuals tend to have higher levels or s. mutans than others. 

You may have heard the common myth of "soft teeth" being passed from parents to children. This is not true! But rather, what's being passed around is a mouth full of bacteria! Researchers believe that children "caught" this bacteria from their mothers. Those with a history of tooth decay were more likely to pass it on to their children. These germs can spread mouth to mouth via shared food, utensils, sneezing, shared straws and kissing! So how can you stop the spread of bacteria? 

Here are 5 practical ways to stop spreading cavity causing bacteria in your family:

Avoid sharing utensils, straws and food.
Anyone with children knows how common it is to share food with them with your  spoon or fork. Teach your children to not share food, utensils or straws with anyone else! You never know who has high levels of cavity causing bacteria in their mouth!

Don't share toothbrushes.
Every family member should have their very own toothbrush! The American Dental Association recommends changing your toothbrush every 3-4 months or sooner if the bristles become flared. You should also change your toothbrush after having the flu or any other virus. Do not share your toothbrush to avoid passing bacteria from person to person.

Clean pacifiers in the sink, not your mouth.
Most parents have done this. Your child drops the pacifier on the ground and you forgot to bring another one. Wash it off in the sink, not your mouth! Your infants mouth is sterile when born. Studies show that the first sign of bacteria in a newborn is from the mother. 

Keep a clean mouth.
Practicing daily oral hygiene habits is the best way to help keep cavity causing bacteria relatively low. One of the most important things you can do for your children is helping them to brush and floss their teeth until they can do it on their own properly. An alcohol free mouth wash will also help keep a clean mouth! 

Visit the Dentist regularly.
Regular cleanings every 6 months can help beginning stages of tooth decay from turning into cavities and reduce levels of cavity spreading bacteria in the mouth. If you and/or you children continue to get cavities even with good oral hygiene habits, talk with your Dentist or Dental Hygienist for ways to help reduce this! Using Xylitol throughout the day, having a stronger form of Fluoride put onto the teeth, or trying to regulate the pH of your saliva are a few ways to help! 

Practice using these tips in your family to help reduce the spread of cavity causing bacteria. Visit a Dentist at least twice a year and brush and floss daily to keep a clean mouth! Remember, good oral hygiene habits can be "contagious" as well! 

-A Healthy Body Starts with a Healthy Smile-