Some households are more prone to tooth decay than others. There are many reasons to account for this; perhaps the family just has bad dining habits, maybe they’re not getting their regular dental visits, and maybe they’re genetically disposed to decay. According to a study from New York University, the amount of conflict going on in the house also plays a big role in how many cavities you have.
This study demonstrated that individuals living in troubled homes, regardless of economic class, average more cavities than those with positive family lives. Every above-average increase in one partner’s verbal or physical aggression toward his or her spouse represents a significant rise in cavity occurrence. Women showed an average of 3.5 more cavities, men had an average of 5.3 more, and children exhibited 1.9 more cavities for every above-average increase of aggression.
The problem is likely a multi-faceted one. First of all, noxious home environments undermine regular routines, like brushing and flossing. Meanwhile, such a stressful situation encourages people to indulge in comfort foods, many of which are sugary.