For most people, taking care of their oral health means brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist twice a year. Some people may seek out whitening products or procedures to achieve the appearance of healthy teeth.
But is going to the dentist for fluoride treatments and fillings the only way to avoid or treat cavities? My research and experience show that it is possible to remineralize your teeth.
What is tooth demineralization?
Enamel is the hard outer layer of the teeth. It is the most mineralized and hardest substance in the human body, stronger than bone. Enamel plays a vital role in protecting the inner layer of the teeth from decay and damage. However, tooth demineralization occurs when tooth enamel loses minerals such as calcium and phosphate.
What causes mineral loss from teeth?
Conventional dentistry says that when the enamel surface is exposed to acid, demineralization occurs. This acid then feeds on oral bacteria, lowering the pH and breaking down the enamel. However, there are some problems with this theory, which you can learn more about here.
The bottom line is that certain foods do cause cavities, but not in the way we’ve been told. In traditional cultures, people didn’t even have toothbrushes, but they had perfectly white, straight, cavity-free teeth. As sugar increased in the diet and healthy fats and water-soluble vitamins decreased, cavities occurred.
The main causes of mineral loss in teeth are:
Sugar and processed foods
Carbohydrates are known to contribute to tooth demineralization. Eating sugar and high-carb foods depletes the nutrients needed for healthy enamel. In particular, it lowers blood phosphorus levels, which are essential for preventing tooth decay. So while sugar sitting on your teeth is not the root cause of tooth decay, it is definitely not doing us any favors!
One study found that animals that were fed sugar directly in their stomachs still developed cavities, even though the sugar didn’t touch the enamel. Grains and modern processed foods also deplete minerals and contribute to cavities.
acid reflux
Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), causes stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus, sometimes into the mouth. Stomach acid is strong (low pH) and can erode tooth enamel. When enamel is weakened or eroded, the teeth become more vulnerable to other sources of acid, such as foods and drinks.
Some women experience acid reflux during pregnancy, which can cause major problems for your teeth as you grow and need more minerals and nutrients.
Symptoms of tooth demineralization
Signs of tooth demineralization can vary from person to person. However, there are some common indicators. For example, an early sign of demineralization is a white spot lesion on the surface of the teeth. These spots appear especially along the gum line. The edges of the front teeth may also begin to become translucent or transparent due to mineral loss.
Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks weakens the enamel. The demineralization process can cause the tooth surface to feel rough or uneven. Rough surfaces are more prone to plaque buildup, which can lead to more plaque and tartar buildup.
Over time, your teeth may become duller or slightly yellow. This is because the enamel loss exposes the underlying dentin. Advanced demineralization can cause structural damage to the tooth enamel. These cavities, or “dental caries,” appear as dark spots or holes on the teeth. If you notice any of these early signs, it is recommended that you focus on remineralization.
Tooth remineralization
Tooth remineralization occurs when calcium and phosphate ions are reabsorbed into the tooth structure. This can occur through healthy saliva or with the support of remineralizing toothpaste. When you eat healthy foods, nutrients such as calcium and phosphate help remineralize the enamel. Without sufficient nutrients, acids and bacteria in the mouth contribute to decay.
Lifestyle Tips for Tooth Remineralization
Tooth enamel is very strong, but it can be damaged or eroded. This damage can be caused by food and drinks, as well as physical wear and tear.
Maintain good oral hygiene to help remineralize your teeth.
Use a soft toothbrush and remineralizing toothpaste to prevent plaque buildup. A good remineralizing toothpaste contains a compound called hydroxyapatite. A 2019 study of children found that hydroxyapatite toothpaste may be as effective as fluoride in preventing cavities. And it doesn’t cause fluorosis or organ damage!
Brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces, for at least 2 minutes. The bass brushing method is even more effective for your teeth and gums! Flossing removes plaque and food particles between your teeth, below the gum line, and in places your toothbrush can’t reach. A healthy mouthwash can help reduce plaque, prevent gum disease, and freshen your breath. Wellnesse Concentrated Mouthwash is another healthy choice.
For years I made my own toothpaste, but now I use this product from Wellnesse. It helps remineralize teeth and create a healthy oral microbiome. In fact, I have developed a whole line of healthy oral products, from floss to remineralizing toothpaste to mouthwash.
While brushing your teeth is important, holistic dental experts say a healthy diet is even more important for tooth remineralization.
Limit foods high in sugar and starch
Limit sugary foods and drinks that can erode enamel. This includes foods high in phytic acid, an antinutrient that depletes minerals. A 2016 study found that how often you eat sugar has a greater effect on demineralization than the total amount of sugar you consume.
Fruit juice is included in the list of foods high in sugar. When focusing on treating cavities, avoid carbohydrate-rich foods such as sweet potatoes and fruits.
Remineralize your teeth with mineral-rich foods
Certain foods can help remineralize teeth by providing essential minerals. The main minerals needed for dental health are calcium and phosphorus. Dairy products (if you tolerate them) are rich in calcium, which can help restore minerals to your enamel. If you don’t eat dairy products, there are other ways to get your daily calcium intake. Vitamin D, K2, and magnesium are also important for healthy teeth.
Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and keeps saliva flowing. If you don’t have enough healthy saliva, you are more likely to develop cavities. Conditions such as mouth breathing and medications that cause dry mouth also increase cavities. Drinking water throughout the day can help keep your mouth moist and help remineralize your teeth.
Add xylitol gum or mints
Sugar-free gum, mints, and candies made with xylitol can also help. Chewing gum containing xylitol can stimulate the flow of mineral-rich saliva. This helps promote a healthy acid/alkaline balance. The American Dental Association (ADA) also supports this practice. According to the ADA, increased saliva production supports the remineralization process.
Try oil pulling to remineralize your teeth
Oil pulling is an Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil in your mouth for 15 to 20 minutes and then spitting it out. This practice is known to improve oral hygiene and overall health. Swishing oil can help reduce the number of harmful bacteria in your mouth. Streptococcus mutans These are the things that are involved in cavity formation. Since I started oil pulling, I have had a lot less plaque!
Avoid excessive force
Avoid using it as a tool and avoid habits such as grinding your teeth (bruxism). Excessive force on your teeth can be detrimental to the structure of your teeth and your overall dental health.
The Key to Tooth Remineralization
Modern dentistry doesn’t want to admit it, but it is possible to remineralize teeth. However, this process requires conscious effort every day. I did it myself, and you can read about my experience preventing cavities here.
My routine has changed over time, but the principles remain the same: Avoid habits that deplete nutrients and damage enamel. Then add mineral-rich foods and healthy fats, and use a daily remineralizing oral care routine.
Have you been able to remineralize your teeth and treat cavities? What worked for you? Share below!
