A Family Dentist Discusses Ways to Reverse Tooth Decay

Filling cavities is one of many services that a family dentist in Phoenix, AZ 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 in 85053 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.

Sealants

Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to protect them from decay. They create a barrier that seals out bacteria and food particles, reducing the risk of cavities in these vulnerable areas.

Regular Dental Check-ups

Regular dental check-ups are essential for early detection and treatment of tooth decay. Your dentist can identify signs of decay during routine examinations and provide appropriate interventions to reverse or halt its progression. Call us to learn more.

Restorative Treatments

In cases of more advanced decay, your dentist may recommend restorative treatments such as fillings, crowns, or root canal therapy to repair and preserve the affected teeth. These treatments can help reverse the damage caused by decay and restore the function and appearance of the teeth.

Lifestyle Changes

Certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, can increase the risk of tooth decay and other oral health problems. Your dentist may discuss strategies to help you quit smoking, reduce alcohol intake, and adopt other healthy habits to improve your oral health.

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 Phoenix Family Dentistry at 602-547-9007 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.