If you want to keep your mouth in tip-top shape, preventing cavities should be a top priority. But before we dig into how to prevent cavities—let’s first look at what a cavity actually is.
Simply put, a cavity is tooth decay or loss of the calcium hydroxyapatite matrix. It starts by a breakdown in the enamel, then travels deeper into the dentin. The decay often starts as a white spot, then turns brown or black and can eventually create a hole in the tooth. While cavities are more common in children, adults also experience decay in their teeth as they age.
What causes cavities?
It’s helpful to start by first understanding the makeup of each tooth. When you think about your teeth, you may not realize that each tooth is made up of several layers. The outermost layer is the enamel. This hard surface provides a barrier of protection to the tooth. Below the enamel is the dentin. Dentin is less dense than enamel and is therefore easier for decay to spread. And then at the very core is the pulp. This is where the nerves and blood supply for the tooth live.The roots of your teeth are covered by a substance called cementum.
Cavities are caused when bacteria builds-up biofilm on the tooth enamel or you have poor pH salivary balance and lack of proper mineral content, thus causing tooth decay over time, as the mineral content exits the main body of the tooth. If left untreated, this decay can work its way through the enamel of the tooth and then into the dentin and finally the pulp. If this bacteria reaches the pulp it can cause serious tooth infections. Signs of a tooth infection may include swelling and/or redness in or around your mouth, pain in your mouth, or a consistent bad taste in your mouth. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to get them checked out by a dentist.
Can you reverse a cavity once it has formed?
While they don’t go away on their own, once a cavity has started to form there are ways to slow, and even stop further the tooth decay. If you do start to notice a cavity forming, it’s best to schedule a dental appointment and get it checked out. We can help you with natural ways to stop or reverse the demineralization process. Watch for our follow-up articles that will go into more detail.
Are there natural ways to prevent cavities?
So much of how cavities are formed is based on our daily habits, actions and inactions. And so it only makes sense that there are also counter-actions we can take to prevent tooth decay naturally. In fact, we have a list of nine easy ways to prevent cavities and boost your oral health!
- Schedule Regular Dentist Visits. This may sound basic, but it’s true. Staying on top of your dental visits will not only help prevent tooth decay, but it will also help catch cavities early before they spread. Seeing a dentist periodically for a cleaning is typical, however your dentist can help recommend a schedule that’s best for you. It’s easy, you just have to make the time and do it.
- Clean Your Teeth After Eating and Drinking. One of the reasons plaque can build up on enamel and lead to tooth decay is when regular teeth brushing and flossing is neglected. Make a point to brush and floss your teeth at least every morning and night, but preferably after every meal.
- Use Quality Toothpaste. It seems like there are a million options when it comes to toothpaste, and making sure you’re using a brand that has quality ingredients is important to keeping your teeth strong and healthy. Learn about our favorite toothpaste here.
- Cut Your Sugar Consumption. Sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth and increases your likelihood of getting cavities. And not only is it bad for your oral health, excessive sugar consumption is just an all-around bad idea for your overall health and well-being.
- Brush with Oil of Oregano. Oil of Oregano contains natural compounds that have been shown to kill and stop the growth of microorganisms. You can brush your teeth daily with Oil of Oregano.
- Drink Green Tea. Green tea contains powerful little compounds called polyphenols which have been shown to reduce harmful bacteria that cause tooth decay. In addition to polyphenols, green tea also contains a small amount of fluoride which in small doses is beneficial for strengthening enamel.
- Chew on Licorice Root. Chewing on licorice root is a great, and natural way to slow root decay. It is an antimicrobial, meaning it helps stop the growth of bacteria that can cause tooth decay.
- Take Vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 is a nutrient your body needs to maintain healthy bones and a supercharged immune system. Additionally, it has also been found to help be helpful in preventing tooth decay.
- Rinse with sea-salt water. Salt water has natural antiseptic properties, meaning it helps kill bacteria. Rinsing your mouth with salt water, with minerals, will help remove extra food particles while also killing cavity-causing bacteria.
- Eat an Alkaline Diet. Consuming foods that are more alkaline than acidic can help protect your teeth and oral health. Examples of alkaline foods are legumes, fruits, vegetables, seeds, and tofu. You can learn more about the benefits of an alkaline diet here.
Summary
So, here’s the thing. When it comes to preventing cavities, a lot is in your control. Making sure you’re taking steps to properly clean your mouth and nourish your body goes a long way in fighting off bad bacteria and keeping your teeth and your body happy and healthy.
At Pearl Oral Health, we want everyone to experience optimal oral health—and we believe that happens when we take care of our bodies holistically. We seek to treat the whole person and we take great care to only use all natural and quality ingredients in any products we use.
If you’re wanting to take preventative measures to fight cavities naturally and optimize your oral health, check out our Pearl Natural Toothpaste. You’ll be able to rest easy knowing you’re treating your teeth naturally, without any harmful ingredients to worry about.
This new toothpaste releases very soon and we’ll launch with a limited amount, so get on the launch list to know when it’s first available!