Why Do Some People Never Get Cavities?

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Some people skip brushing twice, eat sugary food and yet have no cavities - while others get them despite proper care and routine. The difference lies in biology more than brushing.

:tooth: Science Behind Cavity Resistance:

  • Saliva Composition: Saliva rich enzymes like lysozyme and higher biarbonate levels neutralise acids more effectively, lowering cavity risk.
  • Enamel Genetics: Variants in genes like AMELX and ENAM influence enamel thickness and hardness, making teeth more resistant to acid erosion.
  • Oral Microbiome Balance: Research shows that people with fewer Streptococcus mutants (cavity causing bacteria) and more protective strains like Streptococcus sanguinis tend to have less cavities.
  • Immune Factors: IgA antibodies in saliva can reduce bacterial adhesion to tooth surfaces, adding protection.
  • Diet & Fluoride Exposure: While genetics do play a role, early exposure to fluoride and less sugary diet provide an ideal condition for healthy teeth.

Ultimately, even with better genes, it is important to take care of oral hygiene to prevent cavities in long-term.

What are your opinions? Are cavities more about genes you inherit or habits you choose?

MBH/PS

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Its about both genes and habits we choose.

And its more than that how our saliva composition is, antibodies in our oral cavity, and what diet we are taking and how proper cleaning we do.

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Super interesting! I have never had cavities, and now I see that genetics and saliva might be a part of the reason. But I guess good oral habits still matter to keep it that way.

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Great topic! I always wonder how so many people eat chocolates and ice creams but still don’t get cavities.

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Cavities results from both genetics and habits. However daily habits-diet, brushing, flossing, dental care-play a bigger role.

Good oral hygiene and limited sugar usually outweigh genetic risks, making prevention mostly within personal care

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Oral hygiene always matters. Even those with “strong teeth” need regular care to protect long term dental health.

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Both genetics and habits influence cavities. Good oral practices can overcome cavities.

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It’s great to see a post that goes beyond just brushing habits and explains the scientific factors, like genetics and saliva, that play a role.

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Good point. I think habits play a bigger role because even with good genes, poor oral care can still cause cavities

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may be genes

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Some people never get cavities due to a combination of genetics, stronger enamel, healthier saliva composition, good oral hygiene, balanced diet, and beneficial oral microbiota. However, this doesn’t mean they are completely immune-consistent dental care and lifestyle choices remain key for lifelong oral health.

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GERD too plays a role in cavities.
And is often ignored

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Interesting point. I think it’s a genes set the baseline for how resistant your teeth are, but daily habits and diet decide how long that protection lasts.

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Interesting to hear. thanks for sharing.

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I never had cavities, and now I see that genetics and saliva might be a factor. But of course, regular oral hygiene still has a role in making sure it stays that way

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It’s not just luck some people naturally resist cavities thanks to saliva. Saliva isn’t merely moisture it contains calcium, phosphate, buffers, and antibodies that neutralize acid, mineralize enamel, and fight cavity-causing bacteria. On top of that, genetic differences in enamel thickness and immune strength also play a role. Together, this “oral armor” helps explain why some mouths stay cavity-free despite common risks.