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Why Are You Getting Cavities as an Adult? Gainesville, GA
woman holding a green apple

Cavities are for kids, right? Wrong. If you have natural teeth, it doesn’t matter your age, gender or ethnicity; you are at risk for tooth decay. While it is true that children are more prone to cavities, that doesn’t mean you can’t get them as an adult. In fact, there are some surprising factors that cause cavities – and it’s not just from eating sticky candy or not brushing your teeth!

What are Cavities?

You know cavities as that dreaded word from your dentist, and one that requires you to revisit the dental office for a filling. However, do you really understand what cavities – or dental caries – really are?

A cavity is essentially a hole in your tooth caused by decay. When food particles and bacteria build up on the surface of the tooth, they produce acids that erode the tooth enamel (outer layer of your tooth). If left untreated, the hold can grow wider and deeper into the tooth, eventually reaching the tooth pulp. When this happens, your tooth can become extremely painful and infected, and a root canal or even extraction may be necessary. Cavities, therefore, should not be taken lightly.

Top Causes of Tooth Decay

Why are you so prone to cavities? Cavities can develop from a combination of factors, including:

  • Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing regularly allows food particles and bacteria to build up on and between teeth, leading to the development of cavities.
  • Sugary and acidic foods and drinks: Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and produce acid that erodes tooth enamel, increasing the risk of cavities. Acidic foods and drinks also directly erode tooth enamel.
  • Dry mouth: Saliva helps to neutralize acid and wash away food particles and bacteria. A lack of saliva due to certain medications, medical conditions or aging can increase the risk of cavities.
  • Genetics: Some people may be more prone to cavities due to their genetics.
  • Tooth shape and position: Deep grooves or pits in the teeth, or teeth that are crowded or difficult to clean properly, can increase the risk of cavities.
  • Age: Both children and older adults are more susceptible to cavities. Children’s teeth are still developing and vulnerable to decay, while older adults may have receding gums that expose the tooth root to decay.
  • Oral bacteria: Certain types of bacteria in the mouth are more likely to cause cavities than others.

Let us Help Protect Your Smile

If you have factors that make increase your risk for cavities, that doesn’t mean you have to get them. At Gainesville Dental Group, we can offer services to help protect your vulnerable smile, including fluoride treatments, sealants, more frequent cleanings and more.

Posted on behalf of Gainesville Dental Group

Our Patient Reviews

Bev M.

Very happy with the staff at Gainesville Dental Group. The doctors are caring and experienced. I never am left in the waiting room. The hygienist always ask thorough questions and report to the doctor before the exam, saving me from having to repeat everything. Highly recommend.

Dennis C.

I came to Gainesville Dental Group with a crown that was in bad shape and painful. Dr. Vetter was very knowledgeable about what needed to be done and went to great lengths to ensure the treatment to resolve the problem was in my best interest. He and assistant Sarah Riley were very professional yet personable. They worked together seamlessly in a manner that put me at ease and were very focused on fixing the tooth. Any physical discomfort was minimal and both Dr. Vetter and Sarah were encouraging and positive. A very good experience.

Sarah R.

I come to Gainesville Dental Group for my routine cleanings and absolutely love it! It’s very clean and I love how up to date they are with digital X-rays and photos of the teeth. I had to have a filling and they were able to point out on the screen where my cavity was on the X-ray. It’s much easier getting the work done when you have an understanding of what the doctor is doing! Dr. Vetter did my filling and the whole procedure was pain free! I can’t say enough good things about this group!

Linda H.

Dr. Gannon and Hannah were great. They talked me thru my procedure and made sure I was comfortable and pain free. The office was friendly and pleasant. My hubby and son have used them and liked them. I've found a new dentist! Thank You GDG.

Candace C.

Since I started my orthodontic treatment fifteen months ago, the staff at Gainesville Dental Group have been exceptional. Dr. Vetter is so kind and energetic and Kim puts you at ease while she works miracles! I am thrilled at my results and that they worked within my timeframe. I gladly recommend The Gainesville Dental Group for a personalized experience. Thank you!

Kayla B.

The whole office staff is amazing! Super friendly and helpful. Dr. Gannon has always been very nice and does great work! My husband sees Dr. Vetter and has only good things to say as well. I highly recommend this office!

Lorrie M.

This is by far the best dental group I have been to in a long time. The staff is wonderful and caring. From the front office to the Dentists are a class act. Very kind and explain step by step. High quality work. Don't plan on going anywhere else. My husband has had the same experience. Do yourself a favor and check them out. Tell them Lorrie sent you

Bruce Y.

Great dental visit! Went in for annual cleaning and x-rays. Donna did an awesome job and pointed out a potential issue which she brought up to the doctor who concurred. It was an excellent visit. Thank you to the "team" @ Gainesville Dental Group.

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Contact Us

1026 Thompson Bridge Road
Gainesville GA, 30501

Tel: (770) 297-0401

Opening Hours

Monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Our office is open for normal business hours and we are following all ADA/CDC guidelines to ensure staff and patient safety.