Dental Cavities: Causes, Prevention, and Surprising Facts You Need to Know (Infographic)
By Dr. Mason Haddow
Dental cavities, also known as tooth decay, are among the most common health problems worldwide.
They occur when bacteria in your mouth produce acid that erodes tooth enamel, leading to tiny holes or openings.
While cavities are preventable, they remain a significant issue, especially among low-income populations.
This infographic explores the causes, prevention tips, and surprising facts about dental cavities, backed by eye-opening statistics.
Whether you’re looking to protect your smile or simply learn more, this guide has you covered!
Key Takeaways:
- Cavities are caused by bacteria, poor oral hygiene, and sugary diets—but they can be prevented with proper care.
- Low-income adults are 2 to 3 times more likely to have untreated cavities than high-income adults.
- Early-stage cavities can be reversed with fluoride and good oral hygiene, but untreated cavities can lead to serious dental problems.
What Are Dental Cavities?
Dental cavities are small holes in your teeth caused by tooth decay. They form when bacteria in your mouth produce acid that erodes the tooth’s enamel. If left untreated, cavities can grow and affect deeper layers of the tooth, leading to pain, infection, and even tooth loss.
Causes of Cavities
Cavities result from a combination of factors, including bacteria, plaque buildup, poor oral hygiene, and diets high in sugary or starchy foods. Acid from plaque weakens the enamel, creating tiny holes that eventually become cavities.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Statistics show that low-income adults are disproportionately affected by untreated cavities. For example, 26.2% of low-income adults have 1–3 untreated cavities, compared to 13.2% of high-income adults. The gap widens for those with 4 or more untreated cavities (13.2% vs. 3.9%).
Prevention Tips
Preventing cavities is easier than you might think:
- Brush twice a day
- Floss regularly
- Limit sugary foods
- Visit your dentist for regular checkups
Using fluoride toothpaste and dental sealants can also help protect your teeth.
Fun Facts and Myths
- Cavities can be contagious. The bacteria that cause cavities can spread through sharing utensils or kissing.
- It’s not just sugar. While sugar contributes to cavities, starchy foods and poor oral hygiene play a big role too.
Summary
Dental cavities are a widespread but preventable issue. By understanding the causes—such as bacteria, poor oral hygiene, and sugary diets—you can take steps to protect your teeth.
Low-income populations face a higher risk of untreated cavities, highlighting the need for better access to dental care.
With proper prevention and regular checkups, you can keep your smile healthy and cavity-free. Remember, early-stage cavities can even be reversed, so don’t wait to take action!
