A Cavity!
No one ever wants to hear this diagnosis, yet many people have cavities, adults, and children alike.
Cavities are the tiny openings or holes that develop as a result of tooth decay. There are three types of cavities:
- Smooth surface cavities develop on the sides of the teeth.
- Root cavities occur on the surface over the roots of the teeth.
- Fissure or pit cavities are the ones on the chewing surface of the teeth.
Cavities aren’t deadly, but they do ruin the teeth’ aesthetics, and the treatment itself is quite pricey.
Spending an afternoon in the dentist’s chair isn’t the most pleasant experience either, so it is only natural to wonder if there are alternate ways to get rid of cavities.
Is there a way to get rid of cavities?
It has to be the most frequently asked question.
Cavities start with tooth decay, and with time, it gets worse. The pre-cavity phase can be stopped from getting worse at best; however, a full-blown cavity needs medical attention.
Instead of just filling a pre-cavity, dentists aim to re-mineralize the teeth and restore the enamel that’s been eaten away by the acid. The process can be straightforward and regular flossing, and fluoride-based toothpaste can go a long way.
In the case of surface-level cavities, a fluoride-releasing sealant can be applied. It prevents further decay and aids healing at the same time.
In addition to this, there a few home-based remedies that might help!
Based on a study from the 1930s, cavities are caused by vitamin D deficiency. Children and adults who added vitamin D to their diets witnessed a reduction in their cavities. For best results, the people at the time would remove grains and add vitamin D because grains stick to the teeth, leaving harmful bacteria behind.
Sugar-Free Gum
Chewing on sugar-free gum is excellent for your teeth. Clinical results have proven that sugar-free gum re-mineralizes the enamel, so popping a gum after a meal is healthy. When buying a pack, look for gum with xylitol because it stimulates the flow of saliva and raises the pH level of plaque.
They are readily available in stores!
Oil Pulling
It is an ancient method that is said to remove toxins from the mouth. This method reduces plaque, gingivitis, and other harmful bacteria residing in your mouth.
You can use sesame oil or coconut oil for this purpose and hold in your mouth for 20 minutes before spitting it out.
Licorice Root
The licorice root can effectively combat bacteria that are responsible for dental cavities. However, several pilot studies are in the process of confirming its benefits and long-term usage.
Visit a Dentist
It is always better to get a consultation from your dentist for the best advice. Once you know how severe your cavities are, you can proceed with any treatment you prefer.
If you have any questions about your dental health, Snow Family Dentistry offers a wide range of solutions and consultations. For us, your smile matters!
