Your smile is as unique as you are. Yet, there’s one thing our mouths have in common — most of them face tooth decay. In fact, more than 90% of Americans have a cavity at some point in their lifetime, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While it’s impossible to predict exactly who will get cavities, certain genetic and lifestyle factors can increase your susceptibility.

Most people know sugar is a primary culprit in the formation of cavities. But did you know that genetics can also influence the strength of your sweet tooth? A recent study published in Cell Metabolism suggests that the desire to seek out sweet treats is actually woven into your DNA.

Here’s the good news — there are plenty of healthy alternatives to satisfy your sugar cravings without risking cavities.

Depending on your genetic makeup, your enamel may be naturally harder or softer than average. Tooth enamel protects the inner layers of teeth from decay. The softer your enamel, the more easily acids from plaque can attack and break down tooth enamel, which over time, can reach the inner layers of the tooth.

Saliva may be the unsung hero of cavity prevention. The chemical makeup of your saliva can help with remineralization — the process that keeps your teeth from developing cavities. And, producing less saliva can make you more cavity prone. The amount of saliva you have is influenced by a host of lifestyle factors such as snoring, diet and medication.

The effects of saliva don’t stop there. The genetic makeup of your saliva may even help reduce specific types of bacteria that cause cavities, according to an article in the International Journal of Contemporary Dental and Medical Reviews.