A Family Dentist Discusses Ways to Reverse Tooth Decay

A Family Dentist Discusses Ways to Reverse Tooth Decay from Casas Adobes Dentistry in Tucson, AZFilling cavities is one of many services that a family dentist 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 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.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Google: Family Dentist in Tucson, AZ.

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 Casas Adobes Dentistry at 520-365-0559 for an appointment in our Tucson office.

Recent Posts

3 Conditions A Family Dentist Treats

A family dentist treats patients of all ages but focuses on treating and maintaining the oral health of children and teenagers. Having a family dentist means that your entire family can see the same dentist and get to know them better. Often, the dental office can schedule appointments for everyone in the family in one…

Preventative Treatments From A Family Dentist

A family dentist is an excellent choice for many people. This professional is trained to diagnose and treat common dental conditions in patients of all ages so that an entire family can visit the same dentist. That makes it easy for busy households to schedule routine care and preventative treatments. Patients should always work with…

All About Fluoride Treatments From Your Family Dentist

A natural mineral found in teeth, fluoride is a treatment frequently recommended by a family dentist. Fluoride helps prevent cavities, keeps teeth strong, and has been part of healthy oral hygiene for many years. This mineral has an incredible impact on the enamel of the teeth, the hard protective layer around the nerves. It also…

Recent Posts

FAQs About Dental Restoration

5 FAQs About Dental Restoration

Seeing your dentist for a dental restoration can be nerve-racking if you do not know what to expect. Some procedures are invasive, while others are not. Knowing more about the different processes can help you make informed decisions about your procedure. Here are five dental restoration FAQs you can ask your dentist.This dental restoration refers…

The Cost Of Dental Restoration: A Comprehensive Guide

The Cost Of Dental Restoration: A Comprehensive Guide

Any dental restoration can be challenging to budget for. Discussing the particulars with your dentist can help you get a clear idea of the final amount. Understanding the specific elements of your dental procedure is important in setting your budget. Here is a comprehensive guide for determining the cost of your dental restoration.This dental restoration…

Appointment changes require a call during business hours to avoid charges. Please no text, email, or voicemail.*