Cavities, also known as caries, are small openings that occur in your hard molars. Bad mouth bacteria on the surface of your teeth create acid from sugar or food you eat. These microorganisms produce a tenacious covering called plaque. Plaque acids demineralise (remove elements from) the enamel on your teeth, which is a calcium and phosphate-based coating. This wear causes tiny holes in the enamel, causing cavities. Cavities form when acid penetrates the dentin layer underlying the enamel.
Symptoms Of Cavities
When you suffer from cavities, you are likely to suffer from pain that can be excruciating and discomforting. This happens because cavities in your teeth reveal delicate dentine and nerve pulp, resulting in an ache or discomfort that comes and goes. Cavity discomfort is common when you consume cold or sweet meals, according to the American Dental Association. Food catching in your teeth or a region of a tooth that feels rough to contact with your tongue are other indications that you have a cavity. You may also be able to see the condition itself in your teeth.
Also Read: Can Kissing Cause Cavities?
Home Remedies For Cavities
If you develop cavities, clinical dental procedures are needed to restore them. However, it is not possible to reverse them, you can try some home remedies to ease their effects.
Take Vitamin D
Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the diet. According to research published on the National Library of Medicine portal, there is a negative connection between consuming foods rich in vitamin D and calcium (such as yoghurt) and cavities in early childhood. You can imbibe vitamin D from dairy products and sunlight.
Chew Sugar-Free Gums
While it may seem surprising, chewing sugar-free chewing gum can help in remineralising your enamel, according to results shown in clinical trials published in the Journal of Conservative Dentistry. These sugar-free gums should have xylitol which is known to stimulate the saliva and reduce bad mouth bacteria.
Use Aloe Vera
You can also use aloe vera, which is known to fight bad bacteria that lead to cavities. A study published on the National Library of Medicine portal stated that the antibacterial impact of the aloe vera gel helps in stopping germs from accumulating in the mouth. You can use this as a preventive measure to combat cavities.
Also Read: Excessive Saliva Production: What It Means For Oral Cavity, Expert Explains
Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an old method of alternative treatment in which you have to spit out a spoonful of sesame or coconut oil after swishing it around the mouth for about 20 minutes.
Cut Sugar Foods
According to the World Health Organisation, the most significant risk factor for cavities is consuming sugar. They suggest limiting your sugar consumption to less than 10% of your overall caloric intake for the day.
If you are going to consume sugar, try to restrict it for one time during the day. When the sugar is gone, your enamel has an opportunity to remineralise. However, if you consume sugar regularly, your teeth do not have the opportunity to remineralise, becoming prone to cavities.
Bottomline
While you cannot reverse cavities once they affect your teeth but can take steps to prevent further damage to the affected and neighbouring teeth. However, the best option is to visit a dentist and get your cavities fixed without delay.
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