Cavities are one of the most common reasons to see a dentist. Whether it’s improper oral hygiene, not getting enough professional cleanings, or even genetic factors, most people will experience a few at some point.
If you’ve noticed the signs of a cavity, you may wonder if there’s anything you can do at home to reverse it.
Well, the short answer is that, in some cases, a cavity can be reversed.
Keep on reading to find out when that can happen!
Understand the Stages of a Cavity
Cavities are tiny holes that form in the natural tooth enamel. The mouth is full of harmful bacteria, and when they start to eat the sugars (from food), they release acids that slowly break down the tooth’s natural enamel.
But, these holes do not appear overnight. Cavities are usually formed in 4 stages:
Demineralization - This is when the enamel is exposed to the acids released by bacteria. At this stage, the acids have not had enough time to create the hole in the tooth;
Enamel decay - By this point, bacteria continue to eat away at the tooth enamel, and tiny holes become visible;
Dentin decay - Once the hole is formed, bacteria have a way inside the tooth and will continue to eat away at the dentin, the soft tissue underneath the enamel. This is when symptoms such as pain can appear;
Pulp decay - Over time, bacteria make their way to the tooth's pulp, where all the nerves and essential blood vessels lie. At this stage, the cavity can be quite painful and lead to an infection.
Can You Reverse a Cavity at Home?
You can only reverse a cavity if it's in the demineralization stage. If the hole already exists, then there is nothing you or your dentist can do to reverse it.
Tooth enamel does not regenerate or heal the way other tissues of the human body do. The only way to treat the 2nd stage or beyond cavity is to see a dentist to clean the tooth and add a filling to reconstruct the tooth.
In the demineralization stages, you can reverse the cavity by improving your oral hygiene and brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste. Professional fluoride treatments are also available.
Unfortunately, most people completely miss a cavity in its mineralization stage, as the symptoms are subtle.
Have You Noticed a Cavity? Palmetto Dental Associates Is Here to Help
If you are dealing with a cavity, no matter its stage, Lexington dentists Dr. Thomas & Dr. Shull are here to help restore your oral health with professional and compassionate dental services in the Lexington area.
So book your consultation at Palmetto Dental Associates and stop by to restore your oral health.
Want to learn more about our practice or services? Then don’t hesitate to call us at 803-808-0888 for a short chat.