What causes cavities?

Cavities are the demineralized areas, or the holes, that form in teeth as a result of a bacterial infection called dental caries. This infection takes place when the normal healthy bacteria in the mouth are replaced by acid-producing bacteria. This shift in bacteria is primarily cause by two things:

• Prolonged acidic oral environment: contributing factors include, a lack of saliva, and/or a sugary/acidic diet that favors acid-producing bacteria.
• Transmission: this infection is contagious!  You can be infected by someone through the exchange of saliva.

Expert Advice

• Visit a dentist who is performing "caries risk assessment", where they evaluate whether you have factors present that can put you at risk for decay.
• Have regularly scheduled professional cleanings, exams, and perform daily brushing and flossing at home.
• Limit not only sugary/carbohydrate containing items in your diet, but also even non-sugar containing acidic beverages (diet soda, coffee, tea, sparkling water, alcohol). 
• Consider the acidity (pH) of the dental products you are using.  Do they neutralize your mouth? Know your pH. Don't just brush and floss. . . neutralize!
• Xylitol is a very effective agent for limiting the acids produced by bacteria and comes in a variety of gums, wipes, sprays, rinses, toothpastes, etc.
• Using products with xylitol and an alkaline pH, in conjunction with fluoride, may be the most preventive method.
• Keep the pH in your mouth neutral especially after eating.