What Causes Tooth Decay (Cavities)?

What is Tooth Decay (Cavities)?

Tooth decay, also called cavities or dental caries, is damage to the hard surface of your teeth. This damage happens when bacteria in your mouth make acids that eat away at your tooth enamel. Over time, these acids can create small holes, known as cavities. If left untreated, tooth decay can cause pain, infection, and even tooth loss. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tooth decay is one of the most common health problems worldwide.

Main Causes of Tooth Decay

Tooth decay does not happen overnight. Instead, it develops over time due to several factors. Understanding the main causes can help you protect your teeth. Here are the top reasons:

Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing allows plaque to build up.

Frequent snacking or sipping sugary drinks: Sugar feeds bacteria, which make acids that harm teeth.

Bacteria and plaque: Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. It produces acids after you eat or drink.

Dry mouth: Saliva helps wash away food and acids. Less saliva means higher risk of decay.

Eating sticky foods: Foods like candy or dried fruit stick to teeth and feed bacteria longer.

Risk Factors

Some people are more likely to get cavities than others. For example, children and older adults often have a higher risk. But, many other factors can increase your chances:

Not brushing or flossing daily

Eating lots of sugary or starchy foods

Wearing braces or dental devices

Having weak enamel or deep grooves in teeth

Medical conditions that reduce saliva, like diabetes

Taking certain medicines that cause dry mouth

Because these risks add up, it is important to pay attention to your daily habits.

Early Signs and Symptoms

Tooth decay often starts without pain. However, catching it early can prevent bigger problems. Watch for these signs:

White, brown, or black spots on your teeth

Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods

Mild pain when biting or chewing

Bad breath that does not go away

Visible holes or pits in your teeth

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is wise to see your dentist soon.

How Tooth Decay Develops

Tooth decay forms in stages. First, bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars from food and drinks. Then, these bacteria make acids that attack your tooth enamel. Over time, the enamel weakens and breaks down. If the decay is not treated, it can reach deeper layers of the tooth, causing pain and infection. Eventually, this may lead to tooth loss. For this reason, early care is very important.

Prevention Tips

Good news: you can prevent most cavities with simple steps. Here are some oral health tips to help you avoid tooth decay:

Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

Floss daily to remove food and plaque between teeth

Limit sugary snacks and drinks

Drink plenty of water, especially after meals

Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings

Use dental sealants if recommended by your dentist

Chew sugar-free gum to boost saliva flow

Because prevention is easier than treatment, these habits can save you from pain and costly dental work.

When to See a Dentist

Even with good care, cavities can still happen. Therefore, it is important to see your dentist if you notice any signs of tooth decay. Early treatment can stop the problem from getting worse. In addition, regular dental visits help catch problems before they become serious. If you have pain, sensitivity, or visible changes in your teeth, do not wait. Your dentist can give you the best advice for your oral health.

Consult a dentist for personalized guidance on preventing and treating tooth decay.