Understanding Cavities and Infection
A cavity in your tooth doesn’t just appear out of nowhere like a blister on your foot. Rather, it starts with the demineralization of tooth enamel, opening spaces that allow harmful bacteria to thrive and multiply. Understanding this initial damage phase is crucial in learning how to manage and potentially reverse cavities at home.
The Role of Bacteria and Sugars
Certain bacteria, such as streptococcus mutans, reside in the plaque on our teeth and are fueled by sugars of all types, not just the obvious cake and candy but even natural sugars from fruits. Once these bacteria get energy from sugar, they attach to your tooth and multiply, leading to higher acidity levels that further demineralize the enamel.
From Caries to Cavities
The bacterial mass mixed with acidity starts breaking down the tooth structure. Initially, this results in softer, dark areas called caries, which represent an infection. If untreated, the caries may undermine the tooth structure, leading to what we identify as a cavity – a visible hole symbolizing disease.
Intervening Before the Cavity Forms
The best way to tackle cavities is to address them early, during the demineralization stage, before a cavity appears. Even if you have a visible hole, strengthening the surrounding enamel is beneficial. This preventive approach makes any necessary dental work easier and less invasive.
Reducing Sugar and Infection
The first step in treating a cavity at home is limiting sugar intake, preventing the plaque and bacteria from progressing. Furthermore, aiding the enamel’s recovery by avoiding acidic damage, enhancing mineral availability for enamel regeneration is crucial.
The Miracle of Saliva
Saliva plays a critical role in the remineralization process. It’s naturally saturated with the minerals needed to repair tooth enamel. Ensuring your mouth can produce enough saliva, possibly with the help of Xylitol, provides the environment needed for enamel repair.
Using Fluoride Effectively
Fluoride can significantly accelerate the process of enamel remineralization. A dilute fluoride mouth rinse used twice a day is recommended to speed this process. Fluoride helps to re-mineralize and strengthen the surface of your enamel more rapidly.
Addressing Deeper Decay
If decay has penetrated the dentin, it involves deeper bacteria within the tooth structure. Closing off the “feeding straw” for these bacteria by healing the enamel surface helps cut off their food source, allowing natural defenses to work and promoting internal repair.
Empowering Natural Defenses
The odontoblast cells in the dentin can start repairing damage over time if not overwhelmed by constant attack. By maintaining a low-sugar diet, and using products that work against bacteria, these cells can naturally protect and repair the interior of the tooth.
Conclusion: The Long-Term View
While some may doubt it, the reversal of cavities, especially superficial ones, is possible at home through dedicated practices and time. Maintaining dental health reduces future decay risks, saves on dental treatments and ensures stronger, healthier teeth.
