Is it possible to fix tooth decay

Dentists can usually identify tooth decay and further problems with a simple examination or X-ray. It's also important to have regular dental check-ups.

Adults should have a check-up at least once every 2 years, and children under the age of 18 should have a check-up at least once a year. Early-stage tooth decay, which is before a hole or cavity has formed in the tooth, can be reversed by:. Your dentist may apply a fluoride gel or fluoride paste to the affected tooth. Fluoride helps to protect teeth by strengthening the enamel, making teeth more resistant to the acids from plaque that can cause tooth decay. Charges are assessed each year and usually change every April.

Some people do not have to pay for dental treatment, including children, pregnant women and new mothers. Establishing good eating habits by limiting sugary snacks and drinks can help your child avoid tooth decay. Our teeth go through this natural process of losing minerals and regaining minerals all day long.

When a tooth is exposed to acid frequently -- for example, if you eat or drink often, especially foods or drinks containing sugar and starches -- the repeated cycles of acid attacks cause the enamel to continue to lose minerals. A white spot may appear where minerals have been lost.

This is a sign of early decay. Tooth decay can be stopped or reversed at this point. Enamel can repair itself by using minerals from saliva, and fluoride from toothpaste or other sources. But if the tooth decay process continues, more minerals are lost. Over time, the enamel is weakened and destroyed, forming a cavity. A cavity is permanent damage that a dentist has to repair with a filling.

Fluoride is a mineral that can prevent tooth decay from progressing. It can even reverse, or stop, early tooth decay. Most bottled water does not contain enough fluoride to prevent tooth decay. According to the American Dental Association , an abscessed tooth can lead to a serious infection that can affect other parts of your mouth, including your jawbone.

Symptoms of an abscess can include:. Your treatment will match the extent of the decay. If your dentist catches the problem early — a small area of enamel erosion before it reaches the dentin, he or she may recommend a repair treatment — maybe even at home.

Mouthrinses, toothpaste, or filling materials that contain fluoride, calcium, and phosphates may be your solution. These would be thought of as early decay cavity prevention treatments. If you've developed a small cavity, it can be repaired with an amalgam filling made of silver and other metals or tooth-colored resin.

If the cavity is large and your tooth has lost structure, your dentist may decide you need a crown. Crowns are more expensive than fillings, but they strengthen your tooth and restore shape and function.

If your tooth is abscessed, your dentist will refer you to an endodontist for a root canal. With root canal treatment, teeth can become more brittle and break easily.

If you lost a lot of tooth structure due to decay, your dentist might also recommend a crown after the root canal treatment. Listen to your dentist. Regular dental appointments and good oral hygiene care at home, including brushing and flossing between your teeth, may keep you smiling and cavity-free even longer.

Use mouthwash; it has antibacterial properties and helps you get rid of any remaining bacteria in your mouth. Add vitamins and supplements to your diet.

Micro nutrients are essential to bone health and keep inflammation under control to prevent or reverse cavities. Certain vitamins help produce saliva which helps to prevent bacteria from staying on your teeth and certain vitamins make your teeth a lot stronger.

Foods that help promote salivation include bananas, Brussels sprouts, and peas. Vitamins you should consume include Vitamin B, D, magnesium and iron. Eat foods with natural probiotics.