Cavities and gum disease are common oral health issues that affect a significant portion of the population. While general dentistry treatments are available to help prevent or treat them, it is always best to try preventing these issues at home. For many of us, we adhere to a daily oral hygiene routine (like brushing and flossing) to ward off gum disease and cavities. But, is this really enough? Our Dallas, Texas dentist is here to show you how natural prevention at home could help you reverse the very beginning stages of cavities and gum disease.
Don’t give cavities and gum disease a chance to impact your smile. Schedule an appointment with the team at Lakewood Dental Group in Dallas, TX, today! Patients can reach our Dallas, Texas dentist at (214) 827-1885 to get started.
When it comes to cavities and gum disease, preventing and reversing these conditions through natural means can be beneficial for one’s overall oral health and well-being. In this blog, we aim to explore various natural approaches that can help in reversing cavities and gum disease, thereby promoting healthier teeth and gums.
Understanding Cavities and Gum Disease
It’s likely that we’ve all heard of cavities, but what are they, really? Well, cavities (frequently called dental caries) are damaged areas on the surface of the teeth.
Typically, they occur when plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) combines with sugars or starches from our food and produces an acidic waste product that attacks the tooth enamel.
Gum disease (frequently called periodontitis) is an infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth. Plaque and tartar are the primary culprits of gum disease, as a buildup can lead to inflammation and tissue damage.
Ordinarily, advanced cavities and gum disease will not go away on their own. This means that patients with deep cavities or late-stage gum disease must see a professional for help treating these issues.
Luckily, if cavities and gum disease are caught early enough, then there are plenty of natural ways that patients can reverse these issues at home. However, it is always best to prevent these issues rather than trying to reverse them later. The old adage is true–a single ounce of prevention is worth far more than the cure.
Reversing Cavities Naturally
While the focus is more on preventing cavities, there are still plenty of ways that patients can stop active cavities in their tracks. Our Dallas, Texas dentist recommends:
Maintaining a Healthy Diet
A nutritious diet plays a vital role in preventing and reversing cavities. So, try reducing your intake of sugary, starchy, and processed foods, as they promote the growth of bacteria that contribute to cavities.
Instead, our Dallas, Texas dentist recommends opting for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, probiotics, and whole grains. Additionally, it is wise to incorporate foods high in calcium (such as dairy products, leafy greens, and almonds) to promote tooth remineralization.
Practicing Proper Oral Hygiene
Brushing and flossing regularly are fundamental steps in preventing and reversing cavities. Our Dallas, Texas dentist recommends using fluoride toothpaste to strengthen tooth enamel and kill bacteria.
Alternatively, patients can try using nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste instead of fluoride toothpaste to remineralize teeth. There is evidence to suggest that nano-hydroxyapatite may be better at remineralizing teeth than fluoride.
Just remember to brush at least twice a day (yes, every day!) for two minutes. Pay special attention to all tooth surfaces, and don’t forget to floss at least once a day. Flossing once a day helps remove plaque and food particles from between teeth, where cavities often form.
Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is a traditional Hindu practice that involves swishing oil (such as coconut oil or sesame oil) in the mouth for several minutes (often up to 20 or 30 minutes). This process helps reduce harmful bacteria, plaque, and toxins from the mouth, potentially improving oral health and aiding in cavity reversal.
Using Other Natural Remedies
Some natural remedies have shown promise in reversing cavities. For example, eating probiotic foods (such as yogurt, kefir, and kimchi) can help reduce the number of bad bacteria in the mouth, allowing the good bacteria to flourish.
Reversing Gum Disease Naturally
Gum disease can be a devastating condition that robs you of your health and smile. That’s why it is so important to keep periodontitis at bay. To prevent and reverse gum disease, Our Dallas, Texas dentist recommends:
Conducting Effective Oral Hygiene
Proper oral hygiene is crucial for combating gum disease. So, be sure to brush your teeth gently but thoroughly two times daily using a toothbrush with soft bristles. Also, make sure that you are reaching all tooth surfaces, paying special attention to the gumline.
Flossing daily helps remove plaque and bacteria from between the teeth and along the gumline, which is crucial for preventing periodontitis.
Swishing with a Saltwater Rinse
Rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater solution can help tame inflammation and promote healing of the gums. Looking for a simple saltwater rinse recipe? Dissolve roughly half a teaspoon of seasalt in a cup of warm water and rinse your mouth for 30 seconds, twice a day. It’s as simple as that!
Trying Herbal Mouthwashes
Certain herbal mouthwashes can aid in reversing gum disease, especially those containing clove and tea tree oil. However, our Dallas, Texas dentist recommends exercising caution around herbal mouthwashes, as essential oils can damage delicate oral tissues if misused or abused.
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit gum health. Apply food-grade aloe vera gel to your gums and gently massage it for a few minutes before rinsing it away.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices
A healthy lifestyle promotes overall well-being, including oral health. Therefore, our Dallas, Texas dentist recommends:
- Avoiding tobacco products, as they increase the risk of gum disease
- Limiting alcohol consumption, as excessive intake can contribute to gum problems
- Managing stress levels, as chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight gum disease
Meet our five-star Dallas, Texas dentist!
Reversing cavities and gum disease naturally requires consistent effort and a holistic approach to oral health. However, it’s important to note that severe cases may still require professional dental intervention. So, don’t give cavities and gum disease a chance to impact your smile–contact Lakewood Dental Group today! Send us a message here or call (214) 827-1885 to get started now!
