What Causes Cavities? 8 Common Causes of Cavities

Even those who take great care of their teeth stress about cavities as a dentist appointment looms ahead. You dread the idea of getting a filling, not just because it hurts but because it’s expensive. Understanding the causes of cavities is the first step towards prevention.

So, what causes cavities? The short answer is bacteria-laden plaque. That sticky stuff that accumulates on teeth and under the gums from food. Other cavity causes include poor diet, dry mouth, ineffective oral care, and a few other genetic and lifestyle factors.

Fortunately, preventing cavities is actually fairly simple. You can upgrade to a better plaque removal toothpaste like LIVFRESH. Based on published, peer-reviewed research, our patented formula can help remineralize teeth, reduce bleeding gums, and eliminate plaque build-up in a way no other toothpaste can.

Our gel toothpaste is backed by 26 research studies and endorsed by over 3,000 dentists. LIVFRESH can remove plaque up to 250% better than your typical toothpaste, while improving gum health by 190%. 

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“Love this toothpaste. The last time I had my exam, the dental hygienist told me I ought to become a dental hygienist because I take such great care of my teeth. This really takes care of any plaque and tartar. I haven’t had any cavities in quite some time.” - Sharon

“Does what it says it does! My dentist thought I was cheating on him with another dentist my teeth were so clean.” - Katherine

“First dentist visit after using the toothpaste for about 6 months. She said… “you’re not giving me much to do here”. I was skeptical but the product works.” - David

What is a Cavity?

Let’s take a step back before talking about what causes cavities. This is just a small hole in the tooth caused by gradual enamel and dentin breakdown. It’s the visible result of tooth decay, which is something that’s been going on long before you see or feel the damage itself.

A cavity happens when harmful acids wear away your tooth’s outer layers faster than your body can repair them through remineralization (remember this word - it’ll be important in a few moments).

It starts with demineralization, as acids from plaque dissolve minerals on the enamel surface. This eventually weakens the enamel to the point of creating a soft spot if you don’t take steps to address it. This spot becomes a breach where bacteria and acid can work their way into the dentin underneath. This is the softer, more vulnerable layer of the tooth.

At this point you’ll probably feel something isn’t quite right. It could just be sensitivity or mild discomfort. But as the decay works deeper and reaches the tooth’s pulp (where the nerves and blood vessels live), that’s when you could experience infection, severe pain, or even tooth loss.

Long story short, cavities compromise the structure and health of your teeth. They lead to more extensive dental work, such as fillings, crowns, root canals, or extractions. Nobody wants to deal with that. So, let’s look at the common causes of cavities below. 

What Causes Cavities?

Cavities don’t just happen overnight - that’s the good news. It means there is a lot you can do to prevent them from forming. You just need to know the risk factors at play. So, what causes cavities? At their core, they can all be traced back to one sticky substance: plaque.

The Root Cause: Plaque and Bacteria

Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria and food debris that coats your teeth every day. You probably have some on your teeth right now unless you brushed just before reading this guide.

This substance thrives on sugars and starches from your diet if it’s not removed, producing acids as a byproduct. Remember, those acids eat away at the tooth enamel and deplete minerals, weakening the tooth’s surface. Repeated acid attacks create the perfect conditions for cavities to form.

What makes plaque especially problematic is that it can harden into tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing alone. Tartar holds bacteria even closer to the enamel and gumline, producing even more acid and pushing the damage deeper into the tooth structure.

This is why knowing how to remove plaque from teeth at home is so important - and why having the best toothpaste for plaque can help be #1 defense against cavities, according to users. 

Diet and Sugar Consumption

Plaque control is obviously the best way to keep cavities at bay, but some plaque is inevitable. How you eat can impact cavity formation as well. You’re essentially feeding the bacteria in plaque every time you eat or drink, especially foods high in sugars or refined carbs.

Sugars are the fuel bacteria use to produce acid, and frequent snacking means your enamel is under constant attack. Sticky, sugary foods like candies, dried fruits, or even white bread can cling to your teeth longer, making the problem worse.

Poor Oral Hygiene Habits

Inconsistent brushing and flossing gives plaque time to build up - and worse, form into tartar. Skipping nighttime brushing, rushing through your routine, or using a toothpaste that doesn’t really disrupt plaque all give bacteria more time to do damage.

Dry Mouth and Saliva’s Protective Role

Saliva is your body’s natural defense against cavities as it helps wash away food particles, neutralize acids, and deliver minerals to strengthen enamel. This is why rinsing after eating or drinking is so important. 

Unfortunately, a lot of people deal with dry mouth - be it from medications, medical conditions, or dehydration. Whatever the case, you’re missing out on this natural protection. Less saliva = more opportunity for bacteria to cling and thrive.

Tooth Grinding (Bruxism)

Tooth grinding, also called bruxism, wears down the protective enamel layer of your teeth over time. Many people grind unconsciously during sleep, so you might not even know you’re doing it. In other cases you can feel it happening throughout the day as a result of stress.

At any rate, this mechanical damage creates thin, uneven surfaces that are more susceptible to acid erosion and bacterial invasion. Grinding can leave your teeth vulnerable by exposing the softer dentin underneath, even if you have good oral hygiene. You may need a nightguard!

Overbrushing

They say too much of a good thing can be harmful, and this applies to brushing your teeth as well. Brushing too hard or using a stiff-bristled toothbrush can actually wear away enamel rather than help it. 

Excessive pressure leaves both the tooth surface and root areas more prone to decay. It can also create tiny grooves in the enamel where bacteria and food particles collect. The key is to use a soft-bristled brush and gentle, circular motions. Let your toothpaste do the heavy lifting!

Gum Recession

When your gums pull away from your teeth, they expose the sensitive root surfaces that are not protected by enamel. These exposed areas are much softer and more prone to decay from bacteria and acid. 

Gum recession can come from periodontal disease, overbrushing, or even genetics. Whatever the case, those roots need special care because you can’t “regrow” your gums. Fortunately, the best toothpaste for receding gums (according to dentists) is just a click away at LIVFRESH. 

Genetic and Lifestyle Factors

Life’s not fair. Some people are simply more prone to cavities even with the best habits in place. Genetics can determine how strong your enamel is, the shape of your teeth (which can create hard-to-clean crevices), and your natural saliva production.

That stuff is out of your control, unfortunately. What you can control is your lifestyle, though. Smoking, high stress, and lack of access to regular dental care can also be causes of cavities. 

Tips on Preventing Cavities

You know what causes cavities, now the question becomes: how do you stop them? Fortunately, it doesn’t require anything all that intensive. Just rethinking your oral care routine with small tweaks can have a profound impact on cavity prevention. 

It starts with getting the right toothpaste.

Choose the Right Toothpaste for Cavity Prevention

So many people assume all toothpastes are equally effective at preventing cavities, but the reality is most rely on abrasive scrubbing or fluoride alone to manage plaque. Neither approach fully addresses the root of the problem: plaque sticking to your enamel.

That’s what separates LIVFRESH from the rest. Rather than grinding away at your teeth or relying only on fluoride, the formula works on a molecular level to make it harder for plaque to attach and thrive. This is all thanks to a patented ingredient called Activated Edathamil.

It alters the surface charge of your enamel so plaque can’t get the grip it needs to survive your daily brushings. The ingredient also works its way under the gumline to address plaque you can’t see. That’s not all, though - it can even help remineralize teeth!

Don’t just take our word for it. LIVFRESH has over two dozen research studies showcasing measurable reductions in plaque, bleeding gums, and gum pocket depths. It’s safe, gentle, and formulated with clean, naturally-derived flavors that make brushing a more pleasant experience.

Brush and Floss Twice a Day, Every Day

LIVFRESH only works if you use it consistently enough. Brush thoroughly for two minutes, twice a day, and floss at least once (ideally after brushing). It sounds simple because it is!

These two habits disrupt plaque before it hardens into tartar and help remove debris from hard-to-reach areas. Dentists say early-stage cavities can be reversed through proper oral care, so don’t neglect your daily habits!

Be Mindful of Your Diet and Water Intake

You have to eat, but you don’t have to rely on sugar, sticky sticky snacks when cravings come around. Rethink your diet and give plaque less fuel. Sipping water throughout the day helps keep bacteria from producing as much acid, too.

See Your Dentist Regularly

Even the best home care can’t replace professional cleanings and check-ups. Your dentist can catch early signs of decay and help remove tartar you can’t reach on your own, keeping your mouth healthier long-term.

Closing Thoughts on the Causes of Cavities

That does it for our overview of what causes cavities and how you can minimize the risk of developing them. Remember, they don’t appear overnight. They’re the result of plaque buildup, poor oral hygiene, and habits that feed harmful bacteria.

The key takeaway is that plaque is the primary cause of cavities. Managing it is the smartest way to protect your teeth. Brushing and flossing matter, but the toothpaste you choose plays a bigger role than most people realize. That’s why LIVFRESH belongs in your brushing ritual.

In comparing LIVFRESH to Boka vs Davids toothpaste and Risewell vs Boka, there’s no contest. Our formula is proven to work better for those who want cleaner teeth with less risk of cavity formation. Fight the primary causes of cavities head-on with LIVFRESH today!

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