Cavities can occur in anyone, whether you are a little kid or an adult. A cavity is a form of tooth decay. Bacteria in the mouth can form acids that eat away at a tooth or multiple teeth, which can lead to cavities, infection, and even tooth loss. A tooth has three layers: enamel (the hard outer layer), dentin (the middle layer), and the pulp (the center of the tooth). If more layers are affected by tooth decay, the damage is usually worse. Cavities are extremely common, but it is best to treat them in the early stages before a larger infection or problem occurs.
What Causes Cavities?
Cavities are caused by a combination of bacteria and food. Plaque is a clear substance that is always forming on your teeth and gums. The plaque on your teeth has bacteria, which feed on the sugars from the food you eat. The bacteria produce acids that attack your teeth for about 20 minutes after you eat, and this can cause tooth decay or cavities, especially if your oral hygiene isn’t good.
Natural Remedies
Get Your Minerals
Because cavities can be caused by a lack of nutrients or minerals, it is beneficial to eat foods that are rich in vitamins D & K, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus. These foods can include leafy greens, bananas, sprouted beans, nuts, or seeds. Healthy fats like avocado and coconut oil can also be conducive to the health of your teeth.
Rinse With Lemon Water
You can mix the juice from a whole lemon with a glass of warm water. Rinse this solution around in your mouth after brushing your teeth, so it acts like a natural mouthwash. Do this twice daily and the anti-inflammatory properties in lemons may help soothe the cavity.
Oil Pulling
Oil pulling, which is a popular Ayurvedic remedy, can help reduce the bacteria that cause cavities. You can use sesame oil or organic, non-hydrogenated coconut oil. Place 1 tablespoon of the desired oil in your mouth and swish it around for about 15-20 minutes. You can do this every morning before brushing your teeth for about a month to help remedy cavities.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a common home remedy for cavities because it can neutralize the acids in the mouth, which reduces the risk of developing gum disease or tooth decay. Because baking soda can be a bit abrasive, it is best to use it gently with a bit of olive oil. Mix 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda with a little bit of warm water or olive oil, gently rub it on the teeth and gums, and rinse your mouth out with warm water after a few minutes. Do this 2-3 times a week.
Guavas
Guava leaves have been known to help remedy toothaches and gum disease because they have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and analgesic properties. There is also something in the leaves that can act as an anti-plaque agent. Wash a couple leaves, chew them up, and spit them out. Do this twice a day for a couple weeks.
If you use one or more of these remedies, let us know how the work out for you in the comments below.
Vincent Stevens is the senior content writer at Dherbs. As a fitness and health and wellness enthusiast, he enjoys covering a variety of topics, including the latest health, fitness, beauty, and lifestyle trends. His goal is to inform people of different ways they can improve their overall health, which aligns with Dherbs’ core values. He received his bachelor’s degree in creative writing from the University of Redlands, graduating summa cum laude. He lives in Los Angeles, CA.
