Average number of cavities by age 18

Overview

Cavities (also called tooth decay or dental caries) are one of the most common diseases people get and live with during their lifetime.1 Cavities are caused by the bacteria in your mouth that stick to your teeth.

You feed the bacteria every time you eat or drink.

The bacteria produce acid which starts to dissolve the outer enamel layer of your teeth. Your saliva clears away the acid and helps to repair the enamel. If the repair isn't fast enough, bacteria get inside your tooth and make cavities.

Cavities will get bigger unless the bacteria are stopped or removed.

Average number of cavities by age 40

Symptoms

Cavities cause pain and sensitivity as they get bigger, especially when close to the nerve in the middle of your tooth. If the cavity reaches your nerve it may cause an infection (abscess) that can spread in your body.

It is rare, but this can cause death.

You should not experience pain in your mouth or teeth. In children, cavities may lead to problems with eating, speaking, playing, and learning. For people of all ages, cavities that are not stopped lead to tooth

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