When someone has caries, they also have tooth decay. This is a condition that affects many people worldwide, especially those who have a high sugar diet and do not maintain good oral hygiene. When left untreated, tooth decay can cause infections and may lead to need for root canal treatment in some cases. We’ll explore some home remedies for tooth decay and how you can fix it at home. The rate of caries has reduced significantly over the last few decades, thanks to improved oral hygiene habits and usage of fluoride-rich products such as toothpaste or mouthwash. Nevertheless, there are still a lot of people who suffer from this condition today. In fact, one-third of Americans above the age of 20 have experienced caries at some point in their lives. Preventing tooth decay is easier than fixing it later on if left unattended.
What is tooth decay?
Tooth decay, also known as dental caries, is a very common chronic infectious disease that destroys the substance inside the teeth. It’s caused by bacteria in the mouth forming plaque, which sticks to the teeth and forms toxins. A healthy diet plays a key role in preventing tooth decay. It is essential to maintain a proper diet and good oral hygiene habits to prevent tooth decay from forming.
Major types of Cavities
- Root cavities – Occurs when cavities form on the root surfaces of teeth.
- Pit and fissure cavities – Areas of decay in the narrow grooves on the biting surfaces of molars.
- Smooth-surface cavities – Slow-growing areas of decay on the flat, smooth surfaces of teeth.
Remedies for tooth decay at home
Coconut oil – Coconut oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties and has been used as a remedy for toothache for decades now. It is recommended to massage the oil into the surrounding gums and teeth with your finger.
Baking soda – Baking soda has been proven to be an effective remedy for toothache. It is recommended to make a thick paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the affected area. Alternatively, you can sprinkle some baking soda on your toothbrush before brushing your teeth.
Salt – Another great home remedy for toothache is applying a fine layer of salt on the gums. Make sure to avoid getting it in your mouth as it can be very uncomfortable.
Mouthwash with tea tree oil – Mouthwash with tea tree oil is a potent antibacterial agent that can be used to treat toothache. Make sure to swish your mouth with the recommended amount of time.
Conclusion
Tooth decay is a widespread dental issue, but it can be effectively treated with the help of various home remedies. If you suspect that you or someone in your family has tooth decay, it’s important that you act as soon as possible. Vitamin D, oil pulling, licorice lollipops, chewing gum, and other home remedies won’t get rid of existing cavities on their own. But these methods may keep cavities from getting bigger and prevent new ones from coming.
