How to heal and prevent cavities with diet

In the early 20th century, before the advent of modern dentistry, the prevailing belief was that the main cause of tooth decay was a demineralization of the enamal, caused, primarily, by eating grains.  Though they didn't know for sure, they thought that the grains blocked the absorption of specific minerals needed to heal the teeth.

Though we have found that they were not exactly right, the teeth do, in fact, get stronger and weaker throughout the day.  These processes are called 'remineralization' and 'demineralization.'

Contrary to the old belief, the teeth don't just fall apart.  We were, at one point, told that the enamel will degrade, then we need to get the cavity filled.  It turns out that the enamel's actually getting weaker or stronger at any given time, and there are some specific reasons for it.

There are some specific tenets to follow to keep your teeth healing and protected from degradation.

 

1.     Avoid sugar.  The bacteria in your mouth that do the most acidic damage feed on sugar; nearly every time you put it in your mouth you are setting off the demineralization process which can lead to decay.

2.     Protect your teeth from acids. Acidic food and drink is another danger to avoid.  Soda, juice, lemonade, coffee, wine, some tea and even lemon are all acidic foods and drinks that can wreak havoc on the minerals protecting your teeth.  If you eat or drink these things, find yourself in the habit of rinsing your mouth afterward.

3.     Brush or rinse soon after eating. Cleaning the teeth off, directly after consuming any food or drink, simply by rinsing, can keep your teeth protected and prepped for remineralization.

4.     Use a fluoride toothpaste and/or mouth rinse. This is a bit controversial, as fluoride has been show to wreak havoc on the endocrine system.  Small doses, applied directly to the teeth, though, can have amazingly beneficial effects on the enamel by making it more acid resistant.  The fluoride also aids in repair and reminerailzation of the enamel.  Some people will buy a fluoride toothpaste and a fluoride-free toothpaste to mix it up, using the fluoride only occasionally.

5.     Eat a nutritious, balanced diet. This is probably the most important way to protect your body, including your teeth.  Putting the right foods in your body can give you the minerals and vitamins you need to keep the teeth growing strong from the inside.  Fortunately, the same foods that are good for your body are good for your teeth (for the most part).  Introduce large amounts of leafy greens, nuts and healthy fats.  Some dairy and fish are extremely good as well; if you don't eat animal products, make sure to get enough vitamin D and calcium from plants.

 

By following these simple tenets, you'll find your teeth have a much easier time and you may even see your cavities shrink.  Of course, modern dentistry has its place; if you're interested in healing a small cavity next time you visit the dentist, see if they will allow you to take 3-6 months to heal it on your own.  They may suggest filling if it is too large, but you are built to heal!