The dreaded cavity - that pesky little tooth invader that can leave you feeling like your tooth just stepped on a Lego in the middle of the night. That unmistakable sharp, stabbing pain that seems to linger for hours.
Well, don’t fret, for in this 2023 guide, we will uncover the top ten methods on how to fix a cavity at home! Yes, you read that right, we're talking about do-it-yourself home remedies for cavities- because let's face it, who wants to spend a fortune at the dentist's office?
From ancient herbal remedies to modern-day toothpaste hacks, we'll cover everything you need to know about how to treat a cavity at home.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to say goodbye to that nagging toothache and hello to sweet, sweet relief.
Important Consideration
Before we delve deeper into the list of things you can do for treating cavities at home, it's vital to emphasize that some dental issues necessitate professional intervention.
While these remedies can be beneficial for minor cases, consulting a dentist is essential if you're experiencing persistent pain or severe decay. If left untreated, or improperly treated, dental issues can progress into serious health problems.
Now, let’s get into our tips for how to get rid of cavities at home.
1. Taking Vitamin D
One of the critical nutrients for maintaining strong teeth and healthy gums is Vitamin D. This vital nutrient aids your body in absorbing calcium, which is crucial for robust bones and teeth.
Insufficient Vitamin D levels can lead to weakened tooth enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to cavities.
Ways To Increase Your Vitamin D Levels
To boost your Vitamin D levels, consider the following:
- Spend more time outdoors and expose your skin to sunlight, which helps your body synthesize Vitamin D naturally.
- Incorporate Vitamin D-rich foods into your diet, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), eggs, and fortified dairy products like milk and yogurt.
- Take Vitamin D supplements, especially during winter months when sunlight exposure is limited. Consult your healthcare professional for proper dosage and recommendations.
2. Licorice Root
Licorice root possesses antibacterial properties that can contribute to maintaining a healthy oral cavity. It is believed to be effective in combating bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease.
Researchers have discovered that two compounds found in licorice root, licoricidin and licorisoflavan A, are particularly effective in killing the oral bacteria responsible for cavities and gum disease.
How To Use Licorice Root For Dental Health
To harness the power of licorice root for your oral health, try the following:
- Chew on a piece of licorice root for a few minutes each day. This can help clean your teeth and reduce the number of harmful bacteria in your mouth.
- Create a mouthwash using licorice root extract. Add a few drops of licorice root extract to a glass of water and swish it around in your mouth for about a minute before spitting it out.
- Incorporate licorice root powder into your toothpaste. Adding a small amount of licorice root powder to your toothpaste can enhance its antibacterial properties, helping to protect your teeth and gums from decay and disease.
3. Use A Fluoride Toothpaste
Using a fluoride toothpaste is one of the simplest ways to prevent and slow down the progression of cavities. Fluoride helps remineralize tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. To maximize the benefits of fluoride toothpaste, ensure you:
- Brush your teeth twice a day, using a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Spend at least two minutes brushing, covering all surfaces of your teeth
- Spit out the toothpaste after brushing, but avoid rinsing your mouth with water to allow the fluoride to remain on your teeth for longer
In addition to using fluoride toothpaste, consider incorporating other fluoride sources, such as mouth rinses, professionally applied fluoride treatments, and drinking fluoridated water.
4. Saltwater Rinse
The use of saltwater as a remedy for dental issues dates back centuries.
The ancient Greeks, for instance, used saltwater rinses to relieve toothaches and other oral problems. Today, saltwater is still a popular home remedy for a variety of dental issues, including cavities.
The reason saltwater is effective is due to its natural antiseptic properties. Salt acts as a natural disinfectant, making it an effective way to kill harmful bacteria in your mouth.
When you mix salt with warm water, it creates a solution that helps to reduce inflammation and swelling, soothe sore gums, and cleanse the mouth of harmful bacteria.
In addition to its antibacterial properties, saltwater is also a natural astringent. This means that it can help to tighten the tissues in your mouth and reduce the amount of harmful bacteria that can cause cavities. It can also help to neutralize acid in the mouth, which can reduce the risk of tooth decay.
How To Make Saltwater Rinse
- Making a saltwater rinse is easy, simply:
- Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water.
- Make sure the water is not too hot as this can cause discomfort or burns.
- Swish the solution around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
- Repeat this process several times a day, especially after meals or before bed.
5. Cut Out Sugary Foods
Reducing your sugar intake is a critical step in preventing cavities. Sugary foods and beverages are the main culprits behind tooth decay, as they encourage the growth of bacteria in your mouth. To lower your sugar consumption and promote better oral health:
- Replace sugary snacks with healthier alternatives, such as fresh fruits, yogurt, or nuts
- Limit your consumption of soda, fruit juices, and other sweetened beverages, opting for water or unsweetened drinks instead
- Read food labels to check for hidden sugars in processed foods
- Use sugar substitutes like stevia or xylitol to sweeten your food and drinks without increasing your risk of cavities
By adopting a diet rich in whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean protein sources, whole grains, nuts, and seeds, you can support your oral health and overall well-being.
6. Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing a tablespoon of oil (such as coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil) in your mouth for about 20 minutes. This technique is believed to:
- Reduce bacteria in the oral cavity
- Promote healthy gums
- Prevent tooth decay
- Whiten teeth
- Freshen breath
How To Effectively Practice Oil Pulling:
- Choose a high-quality, organic oil (coconut oil is a popular choice due to its pleasant taste and lauric acid content, which has antimicrobial properties)
- Swish a tablespoon of oil in your mouth, making sure to reach all areas
- Continue swishing for 15-20 minutes, taking care not to swallow the oil
- Spit the oil into a trash can (avoid spitting into the sink, as it can clog your drain)
- Rinse your mouth with warm water, followed by your usual toothbrushing routine
Although oil pulling should not replace regular dental checkups and cleanings, incorporating it into your oral hygiene routine may offer additional benefits for your teeth and gums.
7. Aloe Vera: A Natural Solution For Oral Health
Aloe vera, a succulent plant known for its numerous health benefits, can work wonders for your oral health as well.
Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties can help soothe irritated gums, combat harmful bacteria, and promote overall oral health.
How To Use Aloe Vera For Oral Health:
- Extract fresh aloe vera gel from an aloe leaf or use store-bought gel. Ensure that the product is pure and free of additives.
- Gently rub a small amount of aloe vera gel onto your teeth and gums, covering all surfaces.
- Allow the gel to sit on your teeth and gums for a few minutes, letting its beneficial properties take effect.
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water to remove the gel.
- Repeat this process daily to maintain good oral health and fight bacteria that cause cavities.
8. Phytic Acid: The Hidden Enemy Of Healthy Teeth
Phytic acid, a naturally occurring compound found in various plant-based foods, can interfere with the absorption of essential minerals like calcium. This can lead to weakened tooth enamel and a higher risk of cavities.
To protect your teeth from the negative effects of phytic acid, consider doing the following:
- Soak or sprout grains, legumes, and seeds before consuming them. This process helps reduce phytic acid content and increase the bioavailability of essential minerals.
- Choose whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat instead of refined grains. Whole grains have lower levels of phytic acid and more nutrients.
- Incorporate a variety of fruits and vegetables into your diet. They're not only low in phytic acid but also rich in essential vitamins and minerals for overall health.
9. Eggshell: A Natural Source Of Tooth-Protecting Minerals
Eggshells, often discarded as waste, are packed with calcium and other minerals that can help remineralize your teeth. By creating a homemade tooth powder using eggshells, you can strengthen your tooth enamel and prevent cavities.
How To Make Eggshell Tooth Powder:
Collect eggshells from several eggs, rinse them thoroughly, and let them air dry.
Place the eggshells on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F for 10 minutes to remove any residual bacteria.
Grind the eggshells into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or a mortar and pestle.
Mix the eggshell powder with your regular toothpaste for added benefits or use it on its own by dipping a wet toothbrush into the powder and brushing your teeth as usual.
10. Baking Soda
Baking soda is an alkaline substance that can help neutralize the acids in your mouth and prevent further decay.
When you consume sugary or acidic foods, the bacteria in your mouth produce acid that can erode the enamel on your teeth, leading to cavities. By using baking soda, you can help to neutralize the acids and prevent further damage to your teeth.
Baking soda is not only effective at neutralizing acids in the mouth, but it also has antibacterial properties. This means that it can help to kill harmful bacteria in your mouth and prevent further decay.
Baking soda also has been shown to have natural teeth whitening benefits.
How To Use Baking Soda For Cavities:
- Mix 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda with a few drops of water to make a paste.
- You can also add a few drops of peppermint oil to the paste if desired to freshen your breath.
- Apply the paste to the affected tooth and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing with warm water.
By incorporating these natural remedies into your oral care routine, you can improve your oral health and reduce the risk of cavities.
However, always remember that these remedies should complement, not replace, regular dental checkups and professional care.
How To Cover A Cavity On The Front Tooth At Home?
It's not recommended to cover a cavity on a front tooth by yourself at home. Trying to remove cavities at home is a complicated procedure and just asking for trouble.
Instead, you should visit a dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
They will assess the severity of the cavity and provide the appropriate treatment, such as a filling, dental crown, or root canal therapy.
How Can I Fill A Hole In My Tooth At Home?
While you may be tempted to fill a hole in your tooth at home, it's not advisable. Filling a cavity requires professional dental tools, materials, and expertise.
If you suspect you have a cavity, make an appointment with your dentist for proper evaluation and treatment.
What Is The Best Home Remedy For Cavities?
There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the effectiveness of at-home cavity treatments may vary from person to person.
However, a combination of proper oral hygiene practices, a healthy diet, and the use of natural remedies like oil pulling or licorice root can help prevent and slow down the progression of cavities.
How To Treat Black Cavities At Home?
If you’re wonder how to stop a black cavity from growing at home, the answer is it’s complicated. Black cavities are a sign of advanced tooth decay and typically require professional dental treatment.
While you can try some of the home remedies mentioned above to alleviate symptoms and slow down the decay process, it's essential to consult with a dentist for proper evaluation and treatment.
Once a cavity has progressed to a certain degree, it becomes very difficult to treat it with home-based solutions.
Is It Possible To Get Rid Of Cavities At Home In A Day?
Unfortunately, it's not possible to get rid of cavities in just a day. Cavities are the result of prolonged tooth decay, and it takes time for the remedies mentioned above to take effect.
The best course of action is to maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine and follow a healthy diet to prevent further cavities.
Can Stress Cause Cavities?
If you’re wondering can stress cause cavities, the answer might surprise you. While stress can’t directly cause cavities, it can play a major role in them developing.
Stress is a common factor in many health issues, and dental health is no exception. When we are stressed, our bodies produce higher levels of cortisol, a hormone that can weaken the immune system and lead to a range of health problems. One of these problems is an increased risk of cavities.
When we are stressed, we may clench or grind our teeth, a condition known as bruxism. Bruxism can cause tooth enamel to wear down, making our teeth more susceptible to decay.
We are also more likely to neglect our oral hygiene routines, skip dental appointments, or turn to sugary or acidic foods and drinks as a coping mechanism, all of which can contribute to the formation of cavities.
Lastly, stress can also limit our saliva production, which plays a vital role in protecting our teeth from decay.
The Importance Of Regular Dental Checkups
Remember, these remedies and tips on how to heal cavities at home can help you manage minor cases and may provide temporary relief. However, the best way to tackle cavities and improve your smile is to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Regular dental visits not only help in detecting and treating cavities but also play a crucial role in maintaining overall oral health.
Now that you know how to fix a cavity at home, make sure to monitor your cavity symptoms and follow these tips to prevent cavities from developing in the first place.
Prevention is always better than cure, and maintaining good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent cavities from forming in the first place.
But in those moments when a cavity strikes, and you're looking for some at-home relief, these remedies are here to help. So grab some baking soda, licorice root, or oil and get to work!
Your teeth will thank you for it.
