5. Eat Less Sugar

Cavities develop over time as acid produced from the breakdown of sugars in the mouth gradually erodes the enamel, which normally provides a strong, protective outer layer to teeth; eventually the acid causes the dentin, an inner layer of weaker tissue that’s just underneath the enamel, to decay, per WHO.

Avoiding added sugars in your diet goes a long way to preventing this erosion process from starting and can prevent cavities. Limit added sugars to 5 to 10 percent of your diet throughout your life, starting in childhood, to prevent cavities.

“Cavities in baby and adult teeth can have lasting effects on a child’s health, development, and quality of life,” Nascimento says. A sugary diet is also a problem for teens that’s often compounded by poor brushing habits and by orthodontics that can trap bacteria in the mouth.

For older adults, the cavity risk from too much sugar may be compounded by dry mouth, and other health issues can increase the risk of tooth decay, Nascimento adds.