Do Cavities Spread to Other Teeth? | A Comprehensive Guide 

It is a major concern for all when it comes to oral health whether cavities can spread.  Many wonder whether decay in one tooth can affect neighboring teeth. Knowing this process is a must for maintaining optimal dental wellness, particularly in the United States where oral health is a prevalent concern.

Here we will discuss the insights of dental professionals to shed light on the intricate pathways through which cavities can affect neighboring teeth. Let’s first learn what causes cavities so you can protect your smile for years to come.  

Causes of Cavities    

Here are the main causes of cavities:

• The consumption of sugary and starchy foods and beverages provides fuel for cavities which produce acids that attack tooth enamel.
• Less saliva formation, often caused by certain medications, medical conditions, or mouth breathing, creates an environment conducive to cavities by diminishing your mouth’s natural protective mechanisms.
• The molars and premolars can trap food particles and bacteria which makes them difficult to clean and increases the risk of cavities.
• Insufficient exposure to fluoride, whether from water, toothpaste, or professional treatments, can leave teeth more vulnerable to decay.

Do Cavities Spread to Other Teeth

Yes, cavities can spread to other teeth if left untreated. When there is one rotten tooth, it’s essentially a form of decay caused by bacteria in your mouth which produces acids that eat away at the tooth’s enamel. 

If this decay isn’t addressed, it can penetrate deeper into the tooth and reach the inner layers where the nerves and blood vessels are located. From there, the cavities spread horizontally to adjacent teeth if they are in close contact, such as in cases of crowded teeth or teeth with tight contacts. 

How Cavities Are Contagious

Cavities are contagious due to the transmission of bacteria responsible for tooth decay. Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus are two common bacteria found in the mouth that play a significant role in cavity formation. These bacteria feed on sugars and starches from food by producing acids that erode tooth enamel and create cavities.

Cavity can spread through various means which include:

Direct Contact:

Sharing utensils, toothbrushes, or kissing can transfer bacteria from one person’s mouth to another.

Maternal Transmission:

In Infants and young children, cavities can easily spread from their caregivers, particularly through activities like sharing spoons or testing food temperatures contagious cavities easily occur.

Poor Oral Hygiene Practices:

Individuals with untreated cavities or poor oral hygiene habits can easily get cavities, increasing the risk of spreading cavity decay.

Saliva Exchange:

Bacteria can be transferred through saliva from tooth to tooth, especially during activities like sharing drinks or food.

 

 

How Cavities Affect Your Dental Health 

Cavities can impact your dental health in several ways:

• If cavities are left untreated, they affect the inner layers of your tooth which includes the dentin and pulp. This can lead to severe pain, infection, and ultimately, tooth loss.
• If decay reaches the pulp of your tooth, it can lead to an infection. This can result in a painful, pus-filled swelling at the root of the tooth. It requires prompt treatment to prevent the spread of infection to other parts of the body.
• As cavities progress, they can cause sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks. This sensitivity occurs as the protective enamel wears away by exposing the underlying nerves and causing discomfort or pain. 
• Untreated cavities can contribute to the development of gum disease like periodontitis. Bacteria from cavities can irritate and infect the gums which leads to inflammation, bleeding, and eventual gum recession.
• Cavities can cause visible discoloration and staining of the affected tooth by impacting the appearance of your smile. This can affect self-confidence and overall oral aesthetics.
• Cavities weaken the structure of the affected tooth which makes it more susceptible to fractures and breakage. This can compromise your chewing function and overall dental health.

Tips for Cavity Treatment  

Following are some tips for cavity treatment:

• Must address cavities as soon as they’re detected. Early intervention can prevent further decay and minimize the need for extensive treatment.
• Seek professional dental care for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. 
• Decay must be completely removed from the affected tooth to halt its progression. 
• Select the right filling material based on factors like the location and size of the cavity, aesthetic preferences, and budget. 
• Consider dental sealants to protect filled cavities, particularly in high-risk areas prone to decay. Sealants act as a barrier, preventing bacteria and food particles from entering the cavity and causing further damage.
• You should undergo root canal therapy if decay has reached the inner pulp of your tooth to save the tooth and relieve pain.          

FAQs

Are cavities bacteria?

Cavities are not bacteria themselves but are instead the result of bacterial activity in the mouth. Bacteria can adhere to your tooth surface in the form of plaque which provides an ideal environment for bacterial growth.

Once cavities form, they continue to thrive within the porous structure of your tooth and continue the decay process if left untreated.

Is it common to get cavities between teeth?

Yes, it is common to get cavities between teeth. These cavities known as interproximal or interdental cavities develop in the tight spaces between adjacent teeth where plaque and food particles can accumulate.

How many cavities does the average American have?

According to data from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) 90% of adults aged 20 to 64 in the United States have experienced cavities in their permanent teeth. On average, adults have about 9.3 decayed, missing, or filled permanent teeth. 

Among working-age adults aged 50 to 64, decay prevalence is particularly high, with 96% experiencing cavities. The prevalence of decay is higher among individuals who currently smoke compared to those who have never smoked or formerly smoked.

What happens if a cavity is left untreated for years?

If you leave a cavity untreated for years, it can result in pain, infection, tooth loss, and potential systemic health risks. You should get dental treatment at the first signs of tooth decay to prevent further damage and preserve oral health.