Why Some People Rarely Get Cavities While Others Do

March 30, 2026
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Posted By: Dr Peter Duke

 

Even if you’re diligent about brushing and flossing your teeth, you might end up with tooth decay, and that can be very frustrating. Maybe you know someone who consumes sugary drinks all the time and brags about never getting a cavity.

So, why do some people rarely get cavities while others do?

Let’s explore some possibilities.

What Can Cause Tooth Decay?

Although every person’s oral health is different, and there is no way to ensure you don’t get a cavity, there are some reasons that some people could be more resistant to tooth decay:

  • Tooth structure — Your enamel strength and tooth strength are something you’re born with, and some people naturally have thicker, stronger enamel than other people. Unfortunately, some people have deeper grooves in their teeth, and these grooves can trap bacteria and be difficult to keep clean.
  • Saliva composition — The amount of saliva in your mouth plays an important role in keeping your teeth healthy. Saliva remineralises your tooth enamel and protects against acid attacks. So, if you have a higher saliva level to wash away bacteria and neutralise mouth acid, you could be less prone to decay.
  • Bacteria — Tooth decay occurs when the bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars and produce acid. Every person’s microbiome is unique to them, and some people have fewer bacteria in their mouths. This can help them keep cavities at bay.
  • Diet and hygiene — What you eat and how well you care for your smile can both contribute to tooth decay, so it’s essential to consistently brush and floss your teeth and make regular preventive visits to your Mirabooka dental clinic.
  • Dry mouth — When you have a dry mouth, you may not have enough saliva to protect your teeth from cavities. Certain medications can dry out your mouth and affect the pH balance. Talk to our dental team about what you can do to avoid this common concern.

Looking for a Dentist in Mirabooka, WA?

If you’re looking for quality dental care for you and your loved ones, we hope you’ll consider contacting our dental clinic! At Western Smiles, we strive to help every patient achieve a healthy, beautiful smile they’ll be proud to show others.

To book a visit, you can call us on (08) 9349 3688.