“How long does it take for a cavity to form?”

Varies tremendously. Some people take several years to form a cavity, others can take less than 6 months. Best to have regular checkups

3 years

Great question!
It depends on the quantity and frequency of your sugar intake , also if the sugary product is a liquid like soda or sticky and chewy like Tootsie Rolls .
It also depends on your oral hygiene , like if you floss daily and brush 2/3 x a day , if u use a fluoride toothpaste and or mouthwash. Also the ph of your saliva and hardness of your enamel genetically .

A cavity can form in a few days. Bacteria gathers on your tooth, eats sugar and then secretes acid which decalcifies your enamel turning it mushy. This creates a hole or cavity where more bacteria can enter and secrete more acid.

It really depends on a number of factors. Most importantly what you're eating/drinking and how you're caring for your teeth. Typically, they take months to years to form, but this can be sped up if your diet consists of non-water drinks that are not diet drinks, or you are eating lots of sugars or carbs. Usually, your dentist will check the teeth at least every 6 months and
typically take X-rays once a year because cavities can form in that time frame. And note that just because a tooth doesn't hurt, that just means it probably doesn't need a root canal...yet. Not that there is no cavity.

Dr. Stephanie Stephan, DDS