Can you guess what’s one of the most common non-communicable diseases to affect half of the world’s population? We have two words for you: oral issues. According to the World Health Organization(1) (WHO), around 3.58 billion people suffer from oral problems, with Cavities (dental caries) being the foremost condition.
But the surprising part is not this. The primary cause of poor oral health is “behavior-driven” which includes indulgence in unhealthy, sugar-heavy diets, high tobacco consumption, lack of minerals in your diet, alcohol abuse to name a few. Add to the mix, poor dental hygiene standards and insufficient exposure to fluoride, and we’ve got a real problem at our hands – one that won’t be able to save you by the skin of your teeth (pun intended).
In this section, we will address one of the frontrunners when it comes to tooth-related problems: Cavities. Simply put, a cavity refers to a hole in the tooth (caused due to tooth decay) that grows larger and deeper with time, if left unaddressed.
It typically occurs due to plaque – a sticky germ-like substance which specializes in tooth decay. It is believed that a build-up of plaque along with acid causes teeth to break down and eventually cause holes.
If there’s one takeaway that you should learn from this section, it is this: “Cavity is completely preventable by natural means, as well as oral and lifestyle changes.” So here, we will outline all the natural means available at your disposal when addressing the question: “How to get rid of Cavities?”. Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Did You Know!
| A dental cavity is caused by what we eat and drink – sweets, chocolates, fruit juices, and fizzy drinks all cause plaque. |
How To Get Rid of Cavity Using Natural Remedies
- Essential Oil
- Foods
- Home Remedies
- Lifestyle Changes
- Supplements
- Herbal Remedies
CURE 1: Essential Oils for Cavities
We’ve all been taught about oral care since we were toddlers – from brushing twice a day to flossing, we’ve done it all. However, the number of Cavities, root canals, and crowns hardly seem to be diminishing – on the contrary, it seems to be on the rise!
The missing piece is the integration of natural remedies in our daily oral-care routine, especially when it comes to how to prevent Cavities. Let’s start with nature’s most powerful gift to us: “Essential Oils.”
They are antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal in nature which means that they can remove oral microbes safely and potently. Typically, all essential oils used for getting rid of the cavity are utilized in the topical form. It may be because this approach is considered to be the most effective and prompt in providing results.
| To make some essential oils, it takes an entire plant to create a single drop of oil! |
1. Clove Oil
A native of Indonesia, clove is often referred to as a “precious spice” since it’s been in use since ancient times – often as a food preservative and for medicinal purposes. However, clove oil is also particularly effective when it comes to getting rid of pain related to Cavities and tooth decay.
Why Does This Work?
It contains an ingredient called Eugenol which comes with analgesic or pain-relieving properties. That’s not all. Studies(2) suggest that it also possesses antibacterial properties which inhibit the growth of fungi, bacteria, viruses, etc.So, Clove oil for Cavities is the best remedy to consider.
How to Use?
You can take 4-5 drops of good quality clove oil and massage the affected area gently. If you cannot reach the affected area, simply use a cotton swab, dip it in clove oil, and apply.
How Much to Use?
You can apply it 2-3 times a day. Remember to massage gently.
2. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is extracted from the paperbark tea tree and is actively used in dental products.
Why Does This Work?
Studies(3) suggest that tea tree oil comes with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Hence, one of the many wonders of tea tree oil is that it ensures strong gums and keeps the mouth clean of toxins. This, in turn, helps keep the teeth decay-free.
How to Use?
Take 3-4 drops of tea tree oil and massage your teeth and gums with it. Once you’re done, rinse with warm water.
How Much to Use?
You can do this twice a day.
Also Read: Amazing Benefits and Uses of Tea Tree Oil
3. Wild Oregano Oil
Wild oregano oil – one that’s harvested in the Mediterranean mountains comes with infinite benefits – dental or otherwise. Its use improves dental hygiene, kills plaque-causing bacteria, and lowers the risk of gum disease.
Why Does This Work?
It contains phenols which come with potent antiseptic, analgesic, and antibacterial properties making it effective against fungi, bacteria, and viruses.
How to Use?
Take 1 teaspoon of oregano oil, a pinch of salt, and a tablespoon of water. Mix everything and dip your brush in it. Then brush your teeth and see the difference for yourself. Fair warning: The oil has a peculiar taste so be mentally prepared before using it. It might take some time getting used to the flavor. Also, remember that this oil should always be diluted before use.
How Much to Use?
You can brush your teeth once a day with this mixture for healthy and happy teeth.
4. Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil can work wonders for your teeth, gum, and mouth. Native to Australia, eucalyptus oil comes with antibiotic-like properties. In fact, small doses of this oil can make the teeth stronger, thereby preventing the need for dentures and braces for adults and children alike.
Why Does This Work?
Eucalyptus oil can inhibit the growth of tooth decay-causing bacteria.
How to Use?
Take 1-2 drops of eucalyptus oil and add it to your toothpaste. Brush your teeth with this mixture.
How Often to Do It?
Repeat every day until the cavity disappears.
You can also try this DIY mouthwash that comprises of a plethora of goodness for your oral needs:
Take 236 ml of water and mix the following essential oils to it:
- Peppermint (10 drops)
- Spearmint (5 drops)
- Cinnamon (5 drops)
- Clove (5 drops)
- Tea tree (5 drops)
- Lemon (5 drops)
- Eucalyptus (5 drops)
Voila! You’re done. Try this au-naturale mouthwash and witness the benefits first-hand!
Note: Before you consume these oils in any form, please make sure to consult your physician for any unknown allergies and side-effects.
CURE 2: Foods for Cavities
If you’re wondering about how to heal Cavities with food, you’ve come to the right place. Just as there’s a whole list of foods to avoid that can promote tooth decay, there’s another list of foods you can eat that aid in protecting the teeth. Thankfully, they are readily available, while some examples being outright tasty!
The integration of beneficial, delicious ingredients makes for a sustainable dental regime, don’t you agree? The first up on the list is:
1. Licorice Root
While we said that sugar is the main culprit for tooth decay, another ingredient which forms the “sweet spot” of any candy is extremely useful for all problems tooth-related. Yes, the sweet spot we are referring to is licorice root.
Why Does This Work?
Licorice root is filled with antibacterial properties that kills oral bacteria and treat infections with ease. It also prevents tooth decay and other gum diseases.
How to Use?
Take dried licorice root and chew on one end until the root fibers are seen. Continue doing so for 1-2 mins by gently rubbing these fibers on your tooth/gum. Rinse thoroughly with water once done.
How Much to Use?
You can use it every day as a toothbrush.
2. Garlic
Crushing garlic releases allicin – a natural antibacterial agent. It caters to any tooth pain you may have. If you’re worried about the after-taste and smell, simply chew some peppermint – another great ingredient for treating tooth pain!
Why Does This Work?
Garlic works as a wonderful pain-killer due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
How to Use?
It is recommended that you chew raw garlic early in the morning on an empty stomach. You can do this once every day.
How Much to Use?
All you need is 1 clove of garlic.
3. Cheese
Did you know that having cheese after a meal can neutralize the acids in your mouth and lower chances of tooth decay?
Why Does This Work?
Cheese contains an all-important protein called casein which promotes healthy teeth and prevents Cavities. It is seen that calcium levels in the mouth tend to increase after you eat cheese which supports remineralization of teeth, and ultimately cavity prevention.
How to Use?
You can eat it raw or use it as a part of your dishes. There are hundreds of cheese varieties in the market so you’ll definitely be left spoilt for choice!
How Much to Use?
It really depends on the recipe you choose. If you are eating it raw, a few slices post meals should do the job neatly.
4. Raisins
Raisins were believed to cause Cavities for the longest time – and incorrectly so. It is believed that raisins can help fight tooth decay.
Why Does This Work?
They contain polyphenols and flavonoids which fight oral bacteria.
How to Use?
Researchers(2) recommend eating a handful of soaked raisins during breakfast on a daily basis as raisins can interfere with the proliferation of bacteria and prevent them from getting attached to the enamel.
How Much to Use?
You can have 3-4 soaked raisins a day.
5. Aloe Vera
“Healing” is aloe vera’s middle name as it proposes a whole spectrum of benefits – one of which is controlling cavity-causing organisms.
Why Does This Work?
Aloe vera contains anthraquinones which are used in healing and stopping pain due to its anti-inflammatory effects. This, in turn, helps eliminate the tooth-decaying bacteria effectively. Plus, it comes with anti-inflammatory properties thereby reducing any pain and swelling in the teeth and gums. All in all, it can heal wounds relatively quickly and provide immediate relief.
How to Use?
Once you’re done brushing your teeth, take aloe vera juice and swish it around your mouth for a few minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water to get rid of the after-taste. Conversely, you can use aloe vera gel as toothpaste as it is known to fight off Cavities. Also note that aloe vera gel is relatively less harsh on the teeth as it does not contain any hard, chemical compounds that can erode the tooth enamel.
How Much to Use?
You can use a 1/4th cup of aloe vera juice and repeat this routine twice a day.
DIY Recipe for a “Bone Broth”
Here’s a recipe for a powerful bone broth that is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Being rich in calcium and magnesium, they play an active part in preventing tooth decay and dental caries.
Ingredients:
- Salt, black pepper powder to taste
- Poultry, lamb, beef bones
Method:
- Boil all the bones in water until the broth has a thick consistency
- Add salt and pepper powder as per taste. Best to consume this broth while hot.
This broth can also be used in making curries, soups, etc.
There have been more cases of dental decay in the past 100 years than in the last century!
CURE 3: Home Remedies for Cavities
You may be wondering about how to stop Cavities using home remedies or rather if it’s even possible to do so. Let us tell you that it is possible if the decay is at the “pre-cavity” stage – when holes have affected the tooth’s enamel but have not yet reached the dentin. The following remedies help strengthen the tooth’s enamel – also known as remineralization – and so they can be integrated into your daily oral care routine to prevent a cavity from forming altogether.
1. Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an age-old Ayurvedic practice that dates back to 3,000 years.
Why Does This Work?
The oil pulls out fungi, viruses, bacteria, and toxins from the mouth, prevents plaque build-up, and boosts the body’s immunity. Once you’re done, consume warm water with lemon, and finally, brush your teeth.
How Often Should You Do It?
Take a tablespoon of good quality cold-pressed coconut/sesame/olive oil and hold it in your mouth before you brush your teeth. Swish it around your mouth, teeth, and gums for 5 mins every day. Finally, spit it out. Note: Please don’t swallow it or gargle with, you need to spit out the toxins.
2. Fluoride Toothpaste/Mouthwash
Fluoride toothpaste/mouthwash has become extremely famous in the last few years. And why not? It slows the breakdown of the enamel and increases the rate of the remineralization process. So, if you wish to strengthen the weak spots and exposed roots, which ultimately help prevent tooth decay, go for fluoride toothpaste.
Why Does This Work?
A study(3) conducted in 2014 suggests that brushing with fluoride toothpaste helps to remineralize the tooth’s enamel and prevent Cavities. The remineralization process emerges as a major advantage since the lack of minerals can cause tooth decay and Cavities.
How Often Should You Brush?
You can brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day. Alternatively, after brushing your teeth, you can use a fluoride mouthwash to gargle your mouth. Best to do it twice a day.
3. DIY Toothpaste with Eggshells
Eggshells are packed with calcium and 2 minerals which leads to reduced plaque build-up and stronger enamel. In fact, studies(4) suggest that brushing your teeth with eggshell powder can prevent tooth decay and white spots on the teeth.
Why Does This Work?
Made of calcium carbonate, eggshells help prevent decay build-up. It also remineralizes the enamel and dentin of the decaying tooth.
How Often Should You Brush?
Take 1/4th cup of ground eggshells. To make the ground eggshells, clean the eggshell first, boil it for a few minutes, and let it dry. Then grind it to a fine powder. Next, take 2 tablespoons coconut oil and 1 tablespoon baking soda, add to the powder and make a paste. (Please adjust the coconut oil as required to get the toothpaste consistency). Store in an airtight container. You can use this toothpaste every day.
4. Lemon Juice
Freshly squeezed lemon juice in warm water flushes out toxins by increasing urination and freshens your breath.
Why Does This Work?
Lemons are excellent sources of Vitamin C. The acid in these lemons help get rid of germs that cause Cavities and immense pain in the process.
How Often Should You Do It?
If you are suffering from any pain related to tooth decay, you can chew on lemon slices for a couple of minutes. Make sure to rinse your mouth with water once you’re done. Or you can have ½ a lemon’s juice diluted in one glass of warm water for best results. Make sure to dilute the juice and drink or else the acid from lemon may erode your enamel
Also Read: 14 Day Lemon Water Challenge To Lose Weight
5. Salt Water Mouth Gargle
A common suggestion and an age-old one, your grandparents must heavily rely on salt water for tooth-related issues and pain.
Why Does This Work?
It keeps the mouth free from bacteria and removes stickiness from the Cavities. Plus, the salt mixture plays a balancing role when the mouth is filled with acidic pH – often, a side effect of Cavities.
How Often Should You Do It?
Take 1 teaspoon of table/Epsom salt and a glass of warm water. Mix well and gargle with it. Make sure to rinse your mouth thoroughly once done. You can gargle with salt water twice a day.
CURE 4: Lifestyle Changes for Cavities
If there ever was a health issue that can be actively and naturally addressed, it has everything to do with how to fix Cavities. With a dedicated oral regime in place, you can not only treat but prevent tooth decay for good. Make sure to visit your doctor once in a while for an oral checkup. Additionally, here are some easy-to-implement lifestyle changes you can make to ensure the benefits of a healthy oral system:
- This one’s obvious but not a lot of people do it despite knowing that they should: brush your teeth twice a day or else resign to a life of “toothy” problems.
- It is good to massage your teeth and gums once in a while – try clove oil for wonderful benefits. If you can’t take the smell of the oil, simply chew on one clove after your meals to keep your mouth healthy and toxin-free.
- Include raw onions (as a salad) with your meals as they also help in killing the bacteria in the mouth.
- Chew your food slowly and mindfully. It aids in better digestion and more importantly, it secretes enzymes that can effectively kill any decay-related bacteria.
- Floss every night before going to bed to get rid of any food particles that may be stuck in gaps – which can potentially cause tooth decay.
- Chew gum (sugar-free) to strengthen your teeth and gums, remove food particles, and aid in greater saliva production which eventually kills of trouble-causing bacteria.
- Try gargling your mouth with warm water post every meal to eliminate any bacteria/left-over food particles.
- They say the bacteria in your mouth are the busiest at night, it is highly recommended that you gargle at night with warm water and a pinch of salt.
- Once you brush your teeth, it is highly recommended that you use a mouthwash that contains fluoride.
- Fibre-rich foods (think: broccoli, cabbage, radish, tomato etc.) can help reduce plaque build-up and prevent tooth decay.
Also Read: How to have a healthy lifestyle?
CURE 5: Supplements for Cavities
Our bodies are naturally designed to heal and fight infections, including oral issues. But sometimes, when it lacks the proper nutrients, a supplement is required to fill in the gap (pun intended). There are a number of supplements available today that play a beneficial role in strengthening your teeth, mouth, and gums.
1. Vitamin D
A study(5) conducted in 2013 suggests that you can stop Cavities in teeth or reduce its occurrence by taking vitamin D supplements. In fact, further studies suggest that a deficiency in vitamin D levels can cause dental caries.
Why Does This Work?
As you may have guessed, Vitamin D extends a mineralizing effect on the affected tooth/teeth and this helps strengthen the tooth enamel.
How to Consume?
It is generally taken as an oral supplement to be most effective.
How Much to Use?
Please consult your doctor to understand the recommended dose for vitamin D supplements.
2. Calcium
We all know that calcium plays a vital role in maintaining healthy teeth and gums while bonding with tooth enamel and aiding in remineralization. Just like Vitamin D, it has been seen that a diet that’s calcium deficit could cause tooth decay.
Since the body is nutrient-deficient, it tends to pull calcium from the teeth – a very bad sign. This eventually leads to tooth decay. To that end, a study by the Journal of Periodontology claims that those who have a calcium intake of less than 500 mg were almost twice as likely to have periodontitis, or gum disease. The jawbone is particularly at risk.
Why Does This Work?
A study published in 2013 predicted that toothpaste containing arginine, a calcium compound could fight Cavities better than standard toothpaste.
How to Use?
It is most effective when taken as a supplement however, calcium is also found in foods like milk, cheese, yogurt, fish (sardines, salmon), kale, broccoli etc.
How much to consume?
The Food and Drug Administration recommends 1,000 mg of calcium for women younger than 50 and for men of any age, and 1,200 mg for women over 50, all of these should be taken in divided doses.
3. Butter Oil & Cod Liver Oil
If you wish to heal your Cavities naturally, take fermented butter oil and cod liver oil supplements as frequently as possible (after consulting your doctor of course). They are rich in vitamin A, D, and K2 which helps maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Why Does This Work?
Both butter oil and cod liver oil supplements are nutrient-rich and come with Vitamin A, K, and D in abundance – all essential to maintain a healthy dental regime.
How to Use?
It is generally consumed in the capsule form, taken individually or together.
How Much to Use?
You can take 1 supplement each with food at any time of the day.
Note: Please consult your doctor before taking any supplements as a precautionary measure.
CURE 6: Herbal Remedies for Cavities
When it comes to oral hygiene, the first thought that comes to mind is the dreaded visit to the dentist. Luckily, there are a number of herbal remedies you can try to cater to your specific oral need – be it strengthening the gums, fighting Cavities, or ensuring healthy oral hygiene in place.
1. Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass powder helps in treating gingivitis and comes power-packed with 92 minerals (calcium, magnesium, and iron) and vitamins (Vitamin A and E) which lend it its antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is known to heal damaged tissue in the mouth and prevent bad mouth odour.
Why Does This Work?
Wheatgrass’ primary component is chlorophyll which acts as a body cleanser and helps get rid of toxins. The juice acts as an excellent mouthwash and prevents tooth decay. Plus, it extracts toxins from the gums and keeps bacterial growth in check. It also reduces pain related to tooth decay.
How to Use?
You can chew on wheatgrass or consume it as a juice on an empty stomach in the morning. Alternatively, you can also take a wheatgrass supplement to enhance your body’s pH levels, reduce inflammation, and prevent gum-related disease.
How Much to Use?
One cup of wheatgrass juice is sufficient. Take 1 part wheatgrass and 6 parts water to make this juice. Or you can take a ½ teaspoon of the powder in a shot glass, mix with water, and swish it in your mouth for a minute. Then spit it out. If taking it in supplement form, please consult your doctor before for the recommended dosage.
2. Turmeric
Turmeric has been in use for fighting off Cavities since ancient times. Its primary ingredient, curcumin comes with antiseptic, antibacterial, and analgesic properties.
Why Does This Work?
It comes with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that ensure healthy gums and avoid tooth decay.
How to Use?
You can apply it on your teeth and rinse after a few minutes. Conversely, you can massage the teeth with mustard oil and turmeric for 10 minutes. Make sure to be gentle though.
How Much to Use?
A pinch of turmeric for both methods is sufficient.
3. Neem
Everyone knows how effective neem is as a herbal powder which is actively used in Ayurvedic medicine. In Sanskrit, neem literally translates to complete, imperishable, and perfect. And rightly so. Neem is a God-send when it comes to treating periodontal and tooth infections. It comes with fungicidal, antibacterial, and miticidal properties.
Why Does This Work?
It aids in pain-relieving, reducing inflammation, and discomfort related to tooth decay. It also kills plaque-causing bacteria effectively by alkalizing the mouth, gums, and saliva. It also removes calcium-forming organisms and germs that cause Cavities.
How to Use?
Neem oil can be applied locally to the affected areas. Alternatively, if you have the stomach for it, you can chew on a neem twig (also known as neem datun) but make sure to wash it properly before use.
How Much to Use?
You chew on a neem twig for a few minutes and rinse the mouth with water later. You can do this once every day.
Note: Before trying these herbs, please consult your doctor as a safety measure.
The Streptococcus Mutans bacteria plays a major role in tooth decay.
Don’ts for Getting Rid of Cavities
Here are some common “Don’ts” you need to focus on for a rock solid oral regime and for getting rid of Cavities from the root source (pun not intended):
Don’ts
Don’t ignore the following areas when brushing your teeth/massage them as this is where plaque builds up quite easily:
- Cracks, pits, and grooves.
- Between the teeth.
- Around fillings, especially if chipped or broken.
- Nearer to the gum line.
Don’t consume sweets, refined carbs (like bread, pasta etc.), energy drinks, coffee, breakfast cereals, cereal bars, dry fruits that tend to stick to the teeth easily, ice, soda, chips, and alcohol as they can all cause tooth decay.Don’t dehydrate yourself as saliva acts as a buffer between your teeth and the bacteria.
Also, dry mouth can create an imbalance for your mouth’s remineralization process – something that works in favor of the Cavities.Don’t miss those regular body check-ups since a deficiency in vitamin A, D, and phosphorus can lead to tooth decay.Don’t ignore your vitamin K2 intake as this is an extremely useful nutrient for achieving healthy teeth.Don’t eat foods with too much of phytic acid such as beans, grains, plant seeds etc.
FAQs
1. Can Cavities Heal on Their Own?
In one word: “yes.” If the Cavities have not advanced to the dentin of the tooth, they can heal with a little intervention from the person’s end. You can follow the steps mentioned above to treat Cavities and remove them for good without any surgical intervention.
2. Do Cavities Hurt?
Typically, Cavities don’t hurt if they’re small in size. If they become large, they may hurt as they can cause tooth fracture or damage the nerves. Remember that an untreated cavity can lead to an infection called tooth abscess.
3. Are Cavities Contagious?
Yes, Cavities are contagious. Since the bacteria-causing cavity produces acid and destroys the teeth in the process. These germs are contagious with children and infants being extremely vulnerable to it.
4. Can You Reverse Cavities?
Depending on the extent of damage, cavity reversal is possible. However, the primary focus should be on nutrition first and dental hygiene comes second. Please consult your doctor to understand the best way to get rid of them – naturally or surgically.
5. Do Cavities Cause Bad Breath?
Yes, Cavities can cause bad breath mainly because cavity-causing bacteria tend to stay in areas that cannot be easily reached. If the tooth decay process begins and is left untreated, it leads to an accumulation of dental plaque in the cavity. This eventually spreads to the pulp, causes pulp death, and emits a foul odour or bad breath.
One in four adults in the US have Cavities, and more than half of teenagers have had Cavities(6).
Nature and natural means are the best chance we have to preserve our teeth and gums – unless it’s too late to do so. Remember that Cavities don’t appear overnight post a sugar-rich indulgence. They take months or even years to form and are generally a result of your oral microbiome, your diet, oral habits, pH level in your mouth, your saliva quality, among other things. Simply, it’s really because of long-due attention towards your dental care.
But with a little bit of effort, consciousness, and dedication, you can stop Cavities from ruining your mouth, and your life. If your oral issues persist despite the measures mentioned above or if you feel that none of the natural treatments is working in your favour, please consult your doctor for understanding the next steps you should take.