Cavities: What Causes Them?
Dental cavities are small holes in the teeth’s hard surface. Bacteria on the surface of the teeth produce acid from sugar, which causes them. Streptococcus mutans is the most prevalent culprit.
Plaque is a sticky coating formed by microorganisms. The acids in plaque deplete minerals in your enamel, a calcium and phosphate-based layer on your teeth. The enamel is eroded, resulting in small holes. A cavity arises when acid damage penetrates the dentin layer underneath the enamel.
How to Get Rid of Cavities
Many home remedies are based on a 1930s study that claimed that a deficiency of vitamin D in the diet is the cause of cavities. Children who consumed more vitamin D had fewer cavities in this research. The highest effects were achieved by adding vitamin D to their diets while simultaneously eliminating grain items – This may be because grains might become stuck between the teeth.
Vitamin D deficiency may make teeth more vulnerable to cavities. Other variables that might cause cavities include:
- Consuming things that cling to teeth, such as candies and sticky meals,
- Having a medical condition that decreases the quantity of saliva in the mouth
- Snacking on sugary foods or drinks, such as fizzy drinks and desserts, regularly
- Indigestion
- Inadequate tooth brushing
You won’t be able to remove a cavity that has entered the dentin at home. By remineralizing weakening parts of your enamel before a cavity forms, the following home treatments may help prevent cavities or treat:
Vitamin D
Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium and phosphate from the diet. According to studies, there is a link between eating foods high in vitamin D and calcium and cavities in young children. Dairy products, such as yoghurts, are good sources of vitamin D. Individuals who follow a vegan diet may be deficient in vitamin D and therefore should consider taking vitamin D supplements. Vitamin D can also be obtained from the sun.
Sugary foods should be avoided.
The most significant risk factor for cavities is sugar consumption. It is suggested that you limit your daily sugar intake to less than 10% of your overall calorie intake.
If you’re going to consume sugar, don’t do it often throughout the day. Your enamel gets a chance to remineralize once the sugar is gone. However, if you consume sugar regularly, your teeth will not have the opportunity to repair.
Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an old ritual that includes swishing oil in your mouth, such as olive or coconut, for a few minutes before spitting it out. According to a small clinical trial, oil pulling decreases plaque, gingivitis, and the number of germs in the mouth – This has the same efficiency as chlorhexidine mouthwash.
Use Fluoride Toothpaste
Fluoride is essential for cavity prevention and enamel remineralization. Considerable research has been conducted to prove that brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste daily helps prevent cavities. The majority of research has been performed on children or teenagers.
