A Family Dentist Discusses Ways to Reverse Tooth Decay

A Family Dentist Discusses Ways to Reverse Tooth Decay from Joyful Dental Care in Chicago, ILFilling cavities is one of many services that a family dentist provides. Cavities are holes in teeth that occur due to tooth decay. However, if the decay is caught early, it may be possible to reverse it before a cavity forms. Understanding how and why tooth decay happens may make it easier to learn how to prevent or reverse it.

What Causes Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay happens because of acid in the mouth. The human mouth contains hundreds of bacteria. When people consume foods that include carbohydrates and sugars, these foods react with the bacteria to produce acid. The acid coats the teeth with a sticky film called plaque.

Over time, exposure to the acid breaks down the minerals in the tooth. This causes the tooth's surface to become weaker. A family dentist can identify tooth decay with an examination and X-rays. The dentist can also determine how far the decay is advanced. If it is still in the early stages, the dentist may recommend lifestyle changes to prevent the decay from progressing further and causing a cavity.

How Can Tooth Decay Be Reversed?

Making changes in diet or oral hygiene may prove helpful. The following methods have been effective in some cases.

Food and drink

Patients should avoid consuming any food or drink that could promote tooth decay. This includes foods that contain carbohydrates and natural or manmade acids and sugars. Instead, patients should choose helpful foods. Items with naturally occurring probiotics may help control harmful bacteria. Patients should also choose foods that contain vitamins and minerals used to build teeth. Taking supplements of calcium, iron, magnesium and vitamin D may also be useful.

There are two schools of thought about drinking coffee. Some think it should be avoided because it can upset the pH balance in the mouth and promote acid formation. However, others believe that it has helpful antibacterial properties. Individuals looking for a caffeine substitute may wish to try green tea, while those who choose to drink coffee should take it black.

Instead of drinking sugary sodas or juices, patients should drink water instead. Its pH balance neutralizes the acid. It is better to drink tap water than bottled water because the former is fortified with fluoride. Although bottled water may contain fluoride too, it usually is not in sufficient quantities to help with tooth decay.

Hygiene

Since it is a mineral, fluoride helps to build up teeth and protect them from decay. In addition to drinking fluoridated water, patients can help reverse tooth decay by brushing teeth with a toothpaste containing fluoride. A family dentist can also perform fluoride treatments during a routine dental appointment by applying it directly to the teeth in the form of varnish or gel.

To prevent and possibly reverse tooth decay, patients should brush for two minutes at a time twice a day. They should floss at least once a day. Some dentists recommend the use of mouthwash due to its antibacterial properties.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Family Dentist in Chicago, IL.

Conclusion

These methods may be effective at reversing tooth decay that has not progressed significantly. However, once a cavity forms, it is too late. The patient then requires a filling from a family dentist.

Request an appointment or call Joyful Dental Care at 773-786-9560 for an appointment in our Chicago office.

Recent Posts

Common Causes Of Cavities Prevention Tips From A Family Dentist

A family dentist is a popular resource to utilize when looking for ways to prevent cavities. Additionally, they can help individuals identify the cause of the cavity, which is necessary when looking to prevent them from developing in the future. Cavities are caused when bacteria, acid and/or food particles are left on or in between the…

Reasons To Visit A Family Dentist

A family dentist is a general dentist who cares for patients of varying ages. The care and services that they offer cater to both young and old patients, which makes them a versatile resource for entire families to utilize. Keep reading to find out why to visit a family dentist.Outlined below are a couple of…

4 Disadvantages Of Not Seeing A Family Dentist

Oral health is about so much more than the health of the mouth, gums and teeth. Because the mouth is the main entryway into the body, poor oral health can cause negative reactions in the body. Teeth that ache, gums that bleed and breath that has a bad smell are all symptoms of poor oral…

Recent Posts

Do Dentures Look Like Natural Teeth?

Do Dentures Look Like Natural Teeth?

People choose dentures to replace teeth for many reasons. If you have lost teeth or if the dentist has extracted some of yours, there are effective solutions to fill in the gaps in your mouth.You should not have to live with the embarrassment or difficulties of not having teeth. While there are various options to…

Tips For Whitening Your Dentures

Tips For Whitening Your Dentures

If you want to whiten your dentures, there are several ways you can go about doing so.The right denture care can go a long way toward keeping the attachment in good condition. And some everyday household items can help you whiten them, as well. Read on to learn more about how to keep the teeth…