Updated in January 2026
No one wants to hear that they have a cavity, but the truth is that tooth decay is a common dental issue. We recommend a routine exam and cleaning every six months to remove the stubborn plaque and tartar that can cause tooth decay. These preventive visits also make it possible to identify cavities early before they worsen.
So, let’s explore what causes cavities and what you can do to protect your teeth.
How Do People Get Cavities?
When teeth erupt through the gums, and you can start to see them, they are vulnerable to cavities. The plaque (bacteria) has something to cling to, and if left there for a period of time, it will start to cause decay. The back teeth are more prone to cavities because they are harder to clean and have grooves and pits that hide the plaque better.
Causes for Cavities
There are several things that you can do to avoid tooth decay and keep your teeth for a lifetime, but certain things may be out of your control.
Here are some of the biggest reasons you may get a cavity:
- Certain foods and drinks — We’ve been told this ever since we were little, but refined sugars increase the food source for the bacteria and make them more virulent, causing cavities easier. Soft drinks keep dentists in business.
- Frequent snacking or sipping — Nibbling on sugary things a lot throughout the day or sipping sodas all day long will give the bacteria a constant food source and make it hard for your body to fight off the decay.
- Not brushing or FLOSSING — This seems like conventional wisdom, but it still needs to be reinforced. For more information, see the “I don’t care if you brush” blog.
- Not using fluoride — Make sure to use fluoride toothpaste and drink fluoridated water. It’s good for your teeth.
- Age — Younger people can fight off cavities better, but often their oral hygiene doesn’t tend to be as good. Older people may take medications or undergo certain medical treatments that cause dry mouth. Saliva is your body’s major way of fighting off cavities, so if your saliva shuts down, then it shifts the balance in favor of the bacteria.
- Previous dental work — Worn, old, cracked crowns and fillings leave areas that are open and allow bacteria to leak into them. Then they are hidden and protected, making it easy for cavities to grow and cause issues. Catching them early is key to avoiding major problems.
- Genetics — Genetics can certainly make you more prone to tooth decay. No, you don't have "soft" teeth, but your immune system may not be keyed in to fight the bacteria that cause cavities. This is very difficult to battle and deal with because even with all the right moves, you still get cavities. It can be very frustrating! But work with your dentist to find a plan to help win this uphill battle.
Looking for Quality Dentistry in Glendale, CA?
If so, look no further than the experienced dental team at Lucio H. Kim, DDS! We’ll do whatever we can to tailor a treatment plan and get your oral health back on track.
To schedule a consultation or appointment, please feel free to reach out to us at (818) 242-3739.
We look forward to hearing from you.