Where in the mouth do cavities often develop?

Cavities typically occur where the gums and teeth come together. Recession of the gums away from the teeth, combined with an increased incidence of gum disease, can expose tooth roots to plaque.

They are also common in the back teeth, as these can be tougher to keep clean when brushing and are then prone to plaque buildup.

Cavities occur most often in the back teeth, called premolars and molars, which typically have depressions and grooves, known as "pits and fissures". Even though these surfaces are helpful in grinding food, they can accumulate residue from food and drink. Back teeth are also harder than the smoother front teeth to maintain adequate cleanliness, and so plaque can develop more easily and acids can be formed to destroy them. Also, teeth that have little fluoride as protection are more susceptible to developing cavities.

Cavities will most likely develop in your back molars and premolars. This is a common location for cavities because the pits and grooves of your back teeth are harder to reach with a toothbrush. If these teeth cannot be properly cleaned, food is more likely to get stuck and plaque builds up. Cavities are more likely to occur because the bacteria are allowed to produce the acid that decays your tooth.