Cavities are caused by bacteria on the surface of teeth and are tiny holes in the enamel. The acids in plaque will remove minerals from teeth enamel, and this erosion will cause tiny holes. Eating sticky and sugary foods that stick to teeth, having a dry mouth, and a poor oral hygiene routine can all cause cavities, and once a cavity has penetrated the dentin, you will need to find a dentist near you in Tavistock for treatment because you will not be able to get rid of it at home.
Certain home remedies may help prevent cavities, however, and the following tips may help re-mineralize weakened areas of your enamel before a cavity develops:
Chew Sugar-Free Gum
This can help re-mineralize enamel, and it is sometimes recommended that you chew sugar-free gum after meals because it can help stimulate saliva flow and raise the pH of plaque, both of which can help reduce the possibility of cavities.
Make Sure You Get Enough Vitamin D
This will help you absorb calcium and phosphate from the foods you eat. Eating foods that are high in vitamin D and calcium can help prevent cavities, and great examples include milk and yogurt and healthy doses of sun.
Brush Your Teeth with Fluoride Toothpaste
Fluoride is known to prevent cavities and re-mineralize enamel, and brushing your teeth regularly with fluoride toothpaste can help prevent cavities and keep your mouth clean.
Avoid Sugary Foods
Sugar is the most common risk factor for cavities, and consuming too many treats or sugary drinks will lead to cavities. Reducing your sugar intake and cutting out sugary foods from your diet will make a big difference not just for your teeth but for your overall health. Sugar will prevent your teeth from being able to re-mineralize, and all dentists ask their patients to be mindful of their sugar intake.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental checkups are a great way to detect cavities before they become worse. Early detection means fast treatment and less pain or discomfort. Deep cavities can develop without any pain or other symptoms, and only a dentist can spot these problems. If they do find a cavity, they can provide you with fillings, fluoride treatments, and crowns or root canals and will discuss the options that would be right for your smile.
While home remedies cannot get rid of existing cavities, they can help prevent new cavities from developing and may also help re-mineralize softened or weakened areas of your enamel before a cavity develops.
Conclusion
Are you concerned about a cavity? Finding a dentist near you is the first step you must take because they will provide you with the right treatment. Here at Tavistock Family Dentistry, we can repair cavities and provide you with professional advice regarding prevention methods.
Whether you need an emergency dentist or a routine cleaning, we are ready to help, and if you are looking for a reputable dentist near you in Tavistock, contact our office today to schedule your next appointment!
