A cavity is an infection caused by bacteria that creates a hold in the tooth.
Did you know that cavities are infectious like Colds?
Cavities are actually an infection of the tooth created from common bacteria that are present in everyone’s mouth. The biggest culprit of starting cavities is a bacteria called Streptococcus Mutans (S. Mutans for short). In fact, there are over 500 different species of bacteria in the human mouth but when the S. Mutans bacteria is in higher numbers, you are more likely to get cavities.
Bacteria Build Up
When you add factors in like having a sugary diet or slacking on brushing and flossing you are at risk even more. These bacteria build up and start to leak acid onto the teeth which will erode the teeth over time. This will in fact drain the tooth’s enamel of the minerals necessary to protect your teeth. That is why your dentist recommends brushing at least twice a day for two whole minutes and flossing at night!
Person to Person Transmission is Possible
These bugs can pass from person to person. Just like a cold. Parents can literally give their children cavities, especially if they have cavities themselves or have poor oral hygiene. Most forms of transmission happen when parents share forks, spoons, cups, food, or give kisses to their kids. This is why, even though we are pediatric dentists, it is important to recommend that parents get regular dental check ups as well!
Treating Cavities in Kids
Cavities in children’s baby teeth may be left alone if there is minimal threat of it spreading before the the adult teeth move in. That’s a decision best made by your pediatric dentist.
The best way to prevent this and identify cavities is to schedule a cleaning and check-up exam with your pediatric dentist every 6 months (don’t forget get to schedule one for yourself!). At Junior Smiles Children’s Dentistry® we would love to help you fight cavities and make sure those sugar bugs aren’t getting passed around!
For an appointment with Dr. Dylan or Dr. T Jay, please call our office at 303-455-3313.
