Though we don't tend to think of cavities or tooth decay as a disease, it is, in fact, an infectious disease, albeit a highly preventable one. The bacteria responsible for tooth decay are most often transmitted from mother to child in the first years of life. Mothers with high levels of this bacteria in their saliva are more likely to transmit the disease to their children by sharing a utensil, kissing or sharing saliva in any other way. Once bacteria is present in a child's mouth, the disease is chronic and unlikely to ever completely disappear.

However, even the presence of cavity-causing bacteria does not doom you to cavity-ridden teeth. A combination of good oral care and a good diet can keep your enamel strong.

According to The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, tooth decay is the result of an infection with certain types of bacteria that use sugars in food to make acids. Over time, these acids can make a cavity or hole in the tooth. Early tooth decay starts with demineralization of the teeth and may cause white spots or discoloration. This type of decay can be stopped by remineralizing teeth with fluoride treatments and good oral hygiene. Once decay wears through the enamel it causes a cavity and can no longer be reversed. If decay is left untreated it may progress to the next layer called the dentin, or into the roots of the tooth. This is when a root canal or extraction may be needed to prevent infection. This is why it’s important to stop decay before it begins. 

There are a number of simple things you can do to reduce your risk of cavities and reverse early tooth decay.

• Brush twice and floss once daily using proper flossing and brushing techniques.
• Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride to help strengthen enamel.
• Avoid eating sweet or starchy snacks between meals. The harmful bacteria in your mouth feed off these foods and thrive when they are present.
• Chew sugarless gum flavored with Xylitol to clean your teeth when you can't brush. It reduces the harmful bacteria in your mouth.
• Avoid beverages that can damage your enamel, such as soft drinks, sports drinks, and acidic fruit juices.
• See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
  

Taking care of your teeth every day can prevent cavities from forming and leave you with a healthy smile that will last a lifetime.

What measures can be taken to prevent tooth decay?

Practice good oral hygiene and brush and floss twice a day. Use toothpaste with fluoride to help remineralize teeth and avoid sugary snacks or acidic beverages, which can damage enamel. To prevent decay or stop early decay from progressing, your dentist may apply a fluoride varnish or gel to help strengthen your teeth. Another measure that may be taken to prevent tooth decay is the application of sealants. Sealants are a thin coating of plastic applied to the tops of your molars (back teeth) to smooth the surfaces to help prevent food particles from getting trapped. Molars often have grooves or pits and since they are used for chewing, they are at higher risk of developing decay. 

Is there a natural way to halt the progression of tooth decay?

Since tooth decay starts with bad bacteria, besides practicing good oral hygiene you can naturally fight tooth decay by boosting good bacteria. Probiotics with the strains lactobacillus or bifidobacterium have been shown to be effective. You can also eat fermented foods, like yogurt and kefir, which contain these healthy bacteria. 

What steps can I take to prevent decay in both gums and teeth?

Brush and floss twice a day using fluoridated toothpaste, drink water, avoid snacking between meals and see your dentist regularly. Keep gums strong by flossing and consider an interdental cleaner to help clean between teeth. Have a caries risk assessment at your next dental cleaning to access and address gum recession and cavity risk. Knowing your risk factors can help you to reduce them and prevent decay. 

How can you prevent tooth decay while aging?

Though teeth are strong, with age they will naturally have more wear and tear. Gum tissue naturally recedes with age, exposing soft root tissue. This can make older adults more prone to deeper cavities. To prevent tooth decay while aging, vigilant oral care through brushing, flossing and regular dental cleanings is more important than ever. An electric toothbrush may help. In addition, older fillings from childhood and adolescence often start to break down and need replacing. New decay may develop at the edges of those fillings. Consider more frequent dental visits for cleanings and checkups, so your dental professional can evaluate if old fillings need replacing.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.