Tooth decay.

Tooth decay.

Tooth decay is the softening of your tooth enamel and refers to the damage of the structure of the tooth caused by acids that are created when plaque bacteria break down sugar in your mouth. If this loss of mineral from the enamel is left untreated, a cavity, or hole in the tooth, can eventually occur.

Can you fix tooth decay?

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.

What happens if tooth decay is left untreated?

In rare instance, the infection can spread to the brain causing death. Regular visits to the dentist are important to diagnose and treat tooth decay. Tooth decay does more than affect your smile. When you have untreated tooth decay in your mouth it can lead to a toothache, gum disease, and eventually, tooth loss.

How do you get rid of tooth decay?

The following home remedies might help prevent cavities or treat “pre-cavities” by remineralizing weakened areas of your enamel before a cavity develops:

1. Sugar-free gum. ...
2. Vitamin D. ...
3. Brush with fluoride toothpaste. ...
4. Cut out sugary foods. ...
5. Oil pulling. ...
6. Licorice root.