Do elderly people get cavities?
Unfortunately, tooth decay is not a problem reserved for children. Adults of all ages can get cavities since the causes of tooth decay are the same for everyone, regardless of age. We suffer tooth decay when the bacteria in plaque feed on the carbohydrates in our diet to produce acids that cause cavities. Adults are more likely to have decay around old fillings. And, since many older Americans did not grow up with the benefits of fluoride, they may have more fillings than younger people. Tooth root decay is common in older adults and occurs when the gums recede, exposing the softer root surface. This decays more easily than tooth enamel.
