You may think that there is little you can do to heal a cavity aside from go to your dentist and have it filled. While this is likely the most common option, it is not the only remedy. In fact, recent research suggests that a number of natural treatments can be used to reverse tooth decay without the drill. If you are not much of one for needles or even if you just prefer making healthier choices for yourself, consider treating (or preventing) your next cavity by making dietary changes, boosting your nutrient intake, using a mineralizing toothpaste, and oil pulling.
Cavities are the result of tooth decay or the destruction of your actual tooth structure. The goal in treating a cavity is removing the decaying material as well as any bacteria that is causing decay and supporting the development of the tooth to heal. Previously research only supported the typical practice of drilling and then filling a cavity; however, today research suggests that a variety of different remedies can be used to stop decay and remineralize the tooth. In fact, some of the best ways to heal a cavity include making dietary changes, increasing your nutrient intake, brushing with a mineralizing toothpaste, and oil pulling. Nonetheless, you should always consult your dentist prior to self-treatment.
The food you eat greatly affects your overall health as well as the health of your teeth. If you are trying to heal a tooth, considering limiting sugars in your diet as these food particles get into the tooth crevices and actually initiate decay. Likewise, you should eliminate foods high in phytic acid – a mineral blocker and enzyme inhibitor typically found in grains, seeds, nuts, and beans.
In addition to eliminating certain foods, you should also focus on incorporating nutrient-dense foods in your diet. You may even want to take daily supplements. It is important that you eat a diet rich in calcium, vitamin D3, vitamin K2, magnesium, and phosphorus. Try to incorporate additional raw and cooked vegetables, raw dairy, fruit, and animal protein in your diet. Consider taking a vitamin D supplement of 5,000 IU on days you are not in the sun.
A mineralizing toothpaste helps naturally restore your teeth’s structure. You can typically find mineralizing toothpastes at health food stores, or try making your own using 4 tablespoons of coconut oil, 2 tablespoons of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of xylitol, 20 drops of peppermint essential oil, and 20 drops of trace minerals.
Oil pulling is another effective remedy for cavities. Simply swish a tablespoon of oil around your mouth for 20 minutes every day to draw the bacteria out of your mouth hand teeth and naturally restore oral health. Read more about Oil Pulling here.
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