Could there be a hereditary factor to tooth decay ?

Yes and no: There is school of thought that the oral environment and ph are effected by the natural bacteria and enzymes in our mouths. Some of these might have a hereditary factor. Decay in itself isn't inheritable it takes sugar and bacteria. What we tend to see within families more often is parents that don't take care of their teeth have kids that don't take care of their teeth.

Yes: Everyone has different bacteria in their mouth. Some bacteria are more harmful to teeth than others and more likely to cause cavities. Research suggests that mothers are more likely to pass similar bacteria to their children. This can make you more likely to get cavities if your parents had them than someone else.

Not really: Decay is a result of leaving debris on surfaces of teeth. Brushing and flossing properly and regularly will help. A visit to your dentist would also help.

Absolutely!: There are people who do not brush or floss and yet they never get cavities. This is due to there being specific components made by their bodies and found in saliva, blood and gum fluid that fight the bacteria causing cavities. These components are genetically coded for in the person's genes. Approximately 20% of the population are blessed with these genes.

Maybe: Decay is the result of acquiring several bacteria called streptococcus mutans and lactobacilus acidophilus. We are not born with these bacteria. We acquire them from someone who already has the bacteria. This is frequently mom - the primary care giver. Tasting baby food and licking a pacifier are typical ways to pass the infection. It then appears to be a hereditary factor.

Bacteria and sugar: Decay is caused by bacteria which are naturally occurring in your mouth. When the bacteria are fed sugar, either simple like sweets or complex like bread or sugar, they produce acid which eats into the tooth.