Tooth decay is one major problem most people deal with at one point in life. It’s among the world’s most common oral health problems. These problems are most often seen in children, teenagers and older adults. However, anyone can get cavities.
Dental cavities, also referred to as caries, are holes in the teeth caused by tooth decay. Decay usually occurs due to a bacterial infection that causes demineralization and destruction of the hard tissues in the teeth.
Certain factors can increase the risk of getting cavities, including foods that cling to your teeth for a long time, frequent snacking or sipping, poor oral hygiene, not getting enough fluoride, dry mouth, worn fillings or dental devices. Eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia can also contribute to serious dental problems due to repeated purging.
The signs and symptoms of cavities vary, depending on the type and the severity of the problem. Some common symptoms include toothache, tooth sensitivity, mild to sharp pain when eating or drinking, visible holes or pits in the infected tooth, and black, brown or white stains on the tooth’s surface.
If cavities aren’t treated, they can lead to severe toothache, infection and even tooth loss. Some of the treatments for tooth decay and cavities are fillings, crowns and root canals.
The first step toward preventing cavities and stopping existing cavities from becoming worse is to take good care of your teeth. Brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes twice a day, in the morning and before bedtime. Floss once a day and also clean your tongue daily.
If you have faced it then you might know that cavities can make life uncomfortable naturally. This is when you know that hot and cold drinks can be a no go zone! The results are frequent visits to the dentists since they are unbearable. Fortunately, the doctor can be the last option since there is a way to get rid of tooth decay and heal cavities using products that are easily available.
The following are a few recipes to heal cavities and tooth decay:
1. Use of Turmeric, Coconut Oil, Clove Oil and Salt.
Ingredients:
• ¼ teaspoon of Coconut Oil
• ¼ teaspoon of Turmeric.
• 2 drops of Clove Oil.
• A pinch of Salt.
Directions:
• Mix all the ingredients in a bowl.
• Apply the mixture to your toothbrush and brush your teeth gently, targeting the cavities’ areas as much as possible
• Give it a break for 5 minutes and brush once more.
• Lastly, rinse the teeth with lukewarm water.
2. Use of Baking Soda, Lemon Juice, Dried Mint Powder and Peppermint Essential Oil.
Ingredients:
• 1 drop of Peppermint Essential Oil.
• ½ teaspoon of Baking Soda.
• 2 drops of Lemon Juice.
• ¼ teaspoon of Dried Mint Powder (optional).
Directions:
• Mix all the ingredients in a bowl.
• Apply the mixture on a toothbrush and then brush gently, paying attention to all areas.
• Leave it on your teeth for about 3 minutes.
• Lastly, rinse your teeth with slightly warm water.
Avoiding foods which cause tooth decay and replacing them with the ones which improve oral health is essential. It is also good to be cautious while using these recipes, ensuring that you don’t swallow the mixture.
3. Turmeric Powder
In Ayurveda, turmeric is often used to provide respite from cavity pain. It has antibacterial as well as anti-inflammatory properties that help keep the gums healthy and prevent tooth decay due to bacterial infection.
Ingredient:
• Turmeric Powder
• Mustard Oil
Directions:
• Apply some turmeric powder on the affected teeth. Leave it on for a few minutes and then rinse well with warm water.
• Another option is to mix 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder with a little mustard oil and use it to massage your teeth and gums. Leave it on for 10 minutes and then spit it out.
Repeat either of these remedies once or twice daily for at least a few days.
