A Family Dentist Discusses Ways to Reverse Tooth Decay

Filling cavities is one of many services that a family dentist provides. Cavities are holes in teeth that occur due to tooth decay. However, if the decay is caught early, it may be possible to reverse it before a cavity forms. Understanding how and why tooth decay happens may make it easier to learn how to prevent or reverse it.

What Causes Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay happens because of acid in the mouth. The human mouth contains hundreds of bacteria. When people consume foods that include carbohydrates and sugars, these foods react with the bacteria to produce acid. The acid coats the teeth with a sticky film called plaque.

Over time, exposure to the acid breaks down the minerals in the tooth. This causes the tooth's surface to become weaker. A family dentist can identify tooth decay with an examination and X-rays. The dentist can also determine how far the decay is advanced. If it is still in the early stages, the dentist may recommend lifestyle changes to prevent the decay from progressing further and causing a cavity.

How Can Tooth Decay Be Reversed?

Making changes in diet or oral hygiene may prove helpful. The following methods have been effective in some cases.

Food and drink

Patients should avoid consuming any food or drink that could promote tooth decay. This includes foods that contain carbohydrates and natural or manmade acids and sugars. Instead, patients should choose helpful foods. Items with naturally occurring probiotics may help control harmful bacteria. Patients should also choose foods that contain vitamins and minerals used to build teeth. Taking supplements of calcium, iron, magnesium and vitamin D may also be useful.

There are two schools of thought about drinking coffee. Some think it should be avoided because it can upset the pH balance in the mouth and promote acid formation. However, others believe that it has helpful antibacterial properties. Individuals looking for a caffeine substitute may wish to try green tea, while those who choose to drink coffee should take it black.

Instead of drinking sugary sodas or juices, patients should drink water instead. Its pH balance neutralizes the acid. It is better to drink tap water than bottled water because the former is fortified with fluoride. Although bottled water may contain fluoride too, it usually is not in sufficient quantities to help with tooth decay.

Hygiene

Since it is a mineral, fluoride helps to build up teeth and protect them from decay. In addition to drinking fluoridated water, patients can help reverse tooth decay by brushing teeth with a toothpaste containing fluoride. A family dentist can also perform fluoride treatments during a routine dental appointment by applying it directly to the teeth in the form of varnish or gel.

To prevent and possibly reverse tooth decay, patients should brush for two minutes at a time twice a day. They should floss at least once a day. Some dentists recommend the use of mouthwash due to its antibacterial properties.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Family Dentist in Agoura Hills, CA.

Conclusion

These methods may be effective at reversing tooth decay that has not progressed significantly. However, once a cavity forms, it is too late. The patient then requires a filling from a family dentist.

Request an appointment or call The Smile Spa at 818-573-2196 for an appointment in our Agoura Hills office.

Recent Posts

How A Family Dentist Can Treat Tooth Decay

One of the many things that a family dentist does is detect and treat tooth decay. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 90% of adults in the United States have had a cavity at some point in time. Even though this issue is quite common, it does not mean that…

See A Family Dentist For Your Oral Health

When you select a dentist, you are choosing a partner who will work to maintain the quality of your oral health. The choice of a family dentist to work with your entire household offers a variety of benefits, including a comprehensive range of services to keep everyone's smiles bright and healthy. A family dentist is…

When Should You See A Family Dentist?

Visiting a family dentist should be a routine part of everyone's health and dental care. There are numerous reasons a patient may pay a visit to the office, such as minor decay, bruxism, routine cleanings, and more — but how often you truly need to go to the dentist can vary from patient to patient.…

The Smile Spa

Share
Published by
The Smile Spa

Recent Posts

Oral Hygiene Basics: What Are Tartar and Plaque?

Although many people believe that plaque and tartar are the same, they actually have significant…

2 days ago

Oral Hygiene Basics: Good Habits To Maintain

Keeping up with oral hygiene basics can prevent cavities and other issues with your teeth.…

1 week ago

Invisalign and Your Gums as Your Teeth Gradually Shift

If you have opted for Invisalign, you have taken the first step toward achieving a…

2 weeks ago

How the Basics of Oral Hygiene Are Vital for Healthy Teeth

The oral hygiene basics recommended by dentists are essential for healthy teeth and gums. They…

2 weeks ago

Oral Hygiene Basics: The Importance of Cleaning Your Tongue

Brushing and flossing are essential oral hygiene basics that help prevent tooth decay and gum…

4 weeks ago

Oral Hygiene Basics: Recommended Flossing Techniques

Flossing is an oral hygiene basic that everyone should know. Dentists recommend flossing at least…

1 month ago