If you have a child with lots of cavities and you find yourself here, you’re probably wondering if it’s normal.
The truth is that yes, cavities are fairly common in both children and adults. But just because they are common doesn’t necessarily mean that they have to be, or that we have to resign ourselves to cavities just being a normal fact of life.
Did you know that tooth decay is one of the most preventable medical conditions and that oral health is linked to overall health?
Having a cavity or two may not be the end of the world. But cavities can sometimes be a signal of poor oral health, which itself is associated with poor overall health, so while there’s no need to obsess over a few cavities, you also shouldn’t treat them glibly and ignore the oral health of either yourself or your little ones.
Luckily, if you’re scratching your head asking yourself “Why do I keep getting cavities?” or “Why does my kid keep getting cavities?”, the answer (and solution to prevent future cavities) might be simpler than you think.
What is the Average Amount of Cavities in Children vs. Adults?
Around 20% of children under five and 50% of children aged 6-11 are affected by tooth decay, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists.
Specifically, children from around age 2 to 5 years old had three primary teeth that had fillings and two that were decayed in 2011–2016.
Adults from around age 20 to 64 years, on the other hand, had an average of 9.3 decayed, missing, or filled teeth in 2011–2016, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.
Clearly, cavities are a common occurrence. But is there a “normal” amount of cavities? Truthfully, no. Every individual is different.
What’s more, while your genetics play a small role in whether you get cavities or not, 90% of all cavities are related to the environment or are associated with oral care. In other words, whether we get cavities or not is, for the most part, something we have control over.
Why Do I Get So Many Cavities?
Cavities aren’t caused only by indulging in sweets and neglecting to brush your teeth, though these things can certainly contribute to getting them.
The real cause of cavities, though, is bacteria in your mouth that produce enamel-eroding acids when they feast on sugary and starchy foods.
Factors like dry mouth (which in turn can be caused by alcohol consumption and mouth breathing), frequent snacking, and snoring can all increase your risk of getting cavities.
While cavities themselves aren’t an inherited trait, factors such as enamel strength, saliva production, and tooth shape can increase the risk of cavities. And these traits are passed down from family.
Even still, the overwhelming majority of cavities are preventable.
How to Prevent Cavities in My Little Ones
There are several things you can do to stop cavities from developing or prevent them from worsening in severity.
Limit Sugary Treats
Limit sugary foods and drinks like candy and soda because these feed the bacteria that cause cavities. Instead, opt for healthy snacks.
When your kids do eat sweets, encourage them to rinse their mouths with water afterward.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Your little ones should brush their teeth twice a day with anticavity toothpaste, floss once a day, and see a pediatric dentist regularly.
Oral hygiene is about more than just avoiding sugar – it’s also about maintaining a healthy pH balance, promoting saliva production, and caring for the oral microbiome.
Watch for Signs and Symptoms
Pay attention to any pain, sensitivity, or visible signs of decay. In the early stages, cavities look like chalky white spots. When left untreated for a long period of time, they begin to present as brown or black spots.
Early detection increases the chances of simpler treatment and prevents cavities from getting worse.
Choose Anticavity Products Carefully
Only use oral care products that are appropriate for your child’s age and cavity risk. For instance, fluoride toothpaste may be beneficial for children with a history of cavities, while hydroxyapatite is a good alternative for younger children.
Consider Tooth Sealants
Dental sealants are a proven way to prevent cavities in children.
Specifically, the CDC has found that two years after placement, dental sealants prevent over 80% of cavities in the permanent molars, where nine out of ten cavities in children tend to occur.
Learn More
At the Super Dentists, we offer a different kind of family and pediatric dentistry experience marked by a focus on fun, education, and age-and-stage-based care.
We can help you and your family prevent future cavities from occurring and stall the further development of existing cavities with actionable tips, educational resources, and immediate care.
Schedule an appointment at a location near you now for an experience that’s nothing short of super!
