According to the CDC, 90% of American adults have had at least one cavity. You may be wondering what to do if you're currently dealing with a cavity, tooth pain, or a dark mark on your tooth. Can tooth decay be reversed?
The short answer is probably not if you can see or feel it.
Tooth decay is one of the most common health conditions in the United States and is entirely preventable. Still, no matter what home remedies you find on Google or Pinterest, once the enamel has been destroyed, it can't be regrown. Read on to learn more.
How Does Tooth Decay Happen?
Tooth decay is a common problem, but few people know what causes it. The culprit is plaque, an invisible film that sticks to your teeth and builds up over time. Made up of saliva, food particles, and bacteria, if left untreated, the phytic acid produced by these bacteria can cause damage to your enamel which can lead to cavities.
That's why it's so important to practice good dental hygiene and brush your teeth properly every day. Doing this helps prevent plaque buildup and reduces the risk of decay. It might seem like a small step, but it’s an incredibly effective way to keep your smile healthy and avoid dealing with further issues if you're already worried.
Early Tooth Demineralization Can Be Reversed
If you've noticed white marks on your teeth, this could be a sign of early tooth decay, and the good news is that it's reversible! Depending on when you spot the problem and how early in the damage process you are, demineralization caused by early stages of decay can be reversed with professional cleaning, fluoride treatment, and regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste.
So if you've been paying attention to your teeth and notice those early warning signs, address them early and save yourself from cavities down the line.
Can You Reverse Tooth Decay with Home Remedies?
Home remedies for reversing tooth decay, like brushing with baking soda or oil pulling, may provide some temporary antibacterial benefits, but they won't actually reverse tooth decay once your enamel is damaged. Unfortunately, that means that the "cure" for a cavity that some bloggers may tout is really just masking the symptoms, not actually treating the cavity itself.
Don't let the latest influencer fool you when it comes to treating cavities. Not only can it lead to more severe issues with your teeth, but an oral infection can spread to the rest of your body if left untreated, so leave the dentistry to the professionals.
A Cavity Is Not Reversible — It’s Time to See a Dentist
Developing a cavity is something you definitely want to avoid but once it's happened, there's no reversing the damage. Once you have a cavity, a filling or a crown can prevent further progression and can help you maintain your oral health.
A filling is usually recommended to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay. It’s the most common treatment for cavities. This procedure consists of using a synthetic material in order to fill the cavity left by the decay. The dental professional will remove any decaying parts of your teeth and then fill the void with the material.
On the other hand, a dental crown may be necessary if extensive decay has caused your tooth to break or become too weak for a filling. A crown is a custom-made “cap” that’s usually made of porcelain or a ceramic material. It strengthens and protects the tooth while providing a natural appearance.
In either case, it’s important to make sure you take good care of your teeth and gums to prevent cavities from forming in the first place. Healthy oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day and flossing once a day, keep cavities from forming or spreading.
It's also good to cut back on sugary foods and drinks that plaque-causing bacteria love. Taking the time to properly and regularly care for your teeth can go a long way in preventing cavities.
Extensive Tooth Decay Treatment in Tulsa, OK
High-quality restorative dental care can repair the effects of tooth decay and provide protection against further issues. With a combination of techniques such as fillings, crowns, extractions and tooth replacement options, you can restore your dental health and relieve pain from an infected tooth.
No matter how small or large the dental treatment may be, with proper evaluation and diagnosis by a trusted professional, you can regain a confident smile and keep it healthy for years to come.
If you already have advanced tooth decay, it's important to see an experienced dentist who can treat your issues with care. Restore Dentures and Implants of Tulsa is here to help with your tooth decay concerns! Contact us today to learn more about how we can help!
