Cavities in Adults: Why They Happen More Than You Think and How to Prevent Them

When most people think about cavities, they imagine children eating candy and skipping their nightly brushing. But cavities, also known as dental caries, are just as common in adults. Even with regular checkups and brushing, adults are still at risk. Understanding why cavities happen and what you can do to prevent them is key to maintaining a healthy, confident smile.
 

Why Cavities Are Common in Adults

• Gum Recession: As we age, gums can begin to recede, exposing the root surfaces of teeth. Unlike the enamel that protects the crown of a tooth, the roots don’t have the same strong defense. This makes them much more vulnerable to decay.

• Dry Mouth: Adults are more likely to take medications that can reduce saliva flow. Since saliva helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids, dry mouth can dramatically increase your risk of cavities.

• Lifestyle Habits: Coffee, wine, soda, and snacking throughout the day are all common habits that create a more acidic environment in the mouth. These acids weaken enamel and pave the way for cavities.

• Old Dental Work: Fillings and crowns don’t last forever. Over time, they can weaken or develop gaps where bacteria can sneak in and cause decay.
 

Brush and Floss Consistently

The foundation of cavity prevention is still brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. Pay special attention to the gumline and areas around old dental work.
 

Schedule Regular Dental Visits

Routine checkups and professional cleanings allow your dentist to catch early signs of decay and protect vulnerable areas before they become serious problems. Your dentist may recommend fluoride treatments to strengthen your enamel or dental sealants for added protection in hard-to-clean areas.

If you take medications that cause dry mouth, ask your dentist about saliva substitutes, special rinses, or sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva flow.
 

Watch Your Diet

Limit sugary snacks and drinks, and avoid sipping on coffee or soda all day long. Constant exposure to sugar and acids feeds harmful bacteria in your mouth, which then produce acids that attack enamel. Instead of grazing or sipping throughout the day, enjoy treats in moderation and follow them up with water.

Drink water often to rinse away bacteria and strengthen enamel with fluoride if available. Water not only keeps you hydrated, but it also helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids. Choosing fluoridated water when possible adds an extra layer of protection by strengthening enamel and making it more resistant to decay.
 

Take Charge of Your Oral Health

Cavities in adults are more common than many people realize, but they are not inevitable. By being proactive with your oral care and working closely with your dentist, you can keep your teeth healthy and cavity-free for years to come.

At Midtown Dental Center, we’re here to help you prevent and treat cavities before they become a bigger issue. Schedule your dental exam and take the first step toward protecting your smile. Visit our office in Atlanta, Georgia, or call (404) 874-0800 today.