Most of us do our best to avoid cavities—brushing, flossing, cutting down on sweets—but somehow, some people still seem to get them more often than others. It doesn’t really seem fair, right? You take good care of your teeth, but your friend skips flossing and still walks out of every checkup with no cavities.
So, what’s going on here? At Higher Ground Dentistry in Upland, CA, we get this question a lot. And honestly, the answer isn’t just about brushing—it’s a mix of genetics, habits, and a few things that might surprise you.
Factors That Explain Why Some People Get More Cavities?
Even if you keep up with your routine, a few behind-the-scenes factors can make your teeth more vulnerable to decay. Here are the most common ones we see in our Upland patients:
1. Diet (Yes, Sugar Still Wins the Blame Game)
Let’s face it—sugar and cavities are best friends. Every time you sip soda or snack on something sweet, the bacteria in your mouth feed on it and release acid that weakens enamel. The more often you expose your teeth to sugar, the more chances decay has to set in.
Try to enjoy sweets in moderation and rinse your mouth with water afterward if brushing isn’t an option.
2. Gum Recession
When gums start to recede—whether from gum disease, brushing too hard, or simply aging—the tooth roots become exposed. Those roots don’t have enamel to protect them, so cavities can sneak in faster. If you’ve noticed sensitivity or your teeth look “longer,” it’s worth bringing up at your next appointment with Dr. Vikas Sikka.
3. Dry Mouth
A dry mouth might not sound serious, but it’s actually a big deal. The CDC’s Oral Health Division notes that saliva helps neutralize acids and wash away bacteria, so less saliva means more cavity risk.
4. Genetics (Blame Your DNA, Not Your Toothbrush)
Sometimes, it just runs in the family. Some people naturally have thinner enamel or more cavity-causing bacteria. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), Factors like genetics, diet, and saliva composition all influence why some people get cavities more easily than others and can influence enamel strength and oral bacteria levels.
How to Prevent Cavities If You’re More Prone to Them
Even if you’re prone to cavities, there’s plenty you can do to fight back. The key is consistency and a few smart habits that go beyond brushing and flossing.
1. Stick to Regular Dental Visits
We know life gets busy—but skipping cleanings lets plaque build up in ways you can’t remove at home. Regular visits at Higher Ground Dentistry help us spot problems early and keep your mouth in check with gentle, thorough care.
2. Cut Back on Sugar (and Watch the Snacks)
It’s not just how much sugar you eat—it’s how often. Constant snacking means your teeth never get a break. Try spacing out meals and reaching for water instead of sugary drinks.
3. Don’t Skip the Fluoride
Fluoride is your enamel’s best friend. Whether it’s in your toothpaste, mouthwash, or tap water, it helps strengthen teeth and even reverses early decay.
4. Keep Up With Daily Hygiene
Brush twice a day for two minutes and floss at least once. It’s simple advice, but it’s still the most effective cavity prevention strategy around.
5. Ask About Sealants or Our In-House Dental Plan
Sealants can protect those hard-to-clean grooves on your molars, and if you don’t have dental insurance, our in-house plan makes preventive care affordable for families here in Upland and the Inland Empire.
Keeping Upland Smiles Healthy and Strong
At Higher Ground Dentistry, we love helping our patients understand what’s really going on with their teeth. During your visit, Dr. Vikas Sikka takes time to explain what’s happening, what’s normal, and what’s fixable. Our goal is to make every patient—from kids to grandparents—feel comfortable, cared for, and confident in their smile.
We’re also one of the few Upland dental offices open on weekends, so you don’t have to miss work or school to take care of your teeth. Plus, we offer bilingual care in English and Spanish to better serve our local community.
Schedule Your Next Dental Checkup in Upland, CA
If you’ve been wondering “why do I keep getting cavities?” or just need a routine exam, we’re here to help. Let’s make sure your smile stays healthy for years to come.
📞 Call Higher Ground Dentistry today at 909-946-9090 or book your visit online to get started!