Remineralization and reversal of small cavities generally only work in the early stages of tooth decay. Here are ten ways to reverse your cavity at home and prevent future decay:

• Use hydroxyapatite toothpaste. This fluoride-free toothpaste is just as effective at cavity prevention as fluoride toothpaste without the potential side effects. Hydroxyapatite balances your oral microbiome and makes it more difficult for bacteria to attach to teeth.
• Eat a tooth-friendly diet. The best way to prevent cavities is to eat a diet that strengthens your teeth while practicing proper oral hygiene. Opt for remineralization-friendly foods that are rich in vitamin D, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants to “get rid of” small cavities. These foods include whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, grass-fed dairy and meats, pastured eggs, wild-caught fish, and fermented foods.
• Floss nightly. An often-overlooked daily task, flossing, cannot be emphasized enough and not only prevents cavities in between our teeth (where we see them a majority of the time!), but it also combats gum disease, which is linked to multiple systemic issues like Alzheimer’s, Diabetes, Cancer, some Autoimmune Diseases and more. Floss is Boss.
• Use Ozone. Find a Dentist who uses ozone water and gas in their office and consider purchasing ozone oil at home. Ozone is an antimicrobial agent that can be used in dentistry to kill bacteria and other pathogens, heal gingivitis, arrest and initiate decay reversal, and it can help shift your oral microbiomes out of dysbiosis and into balance.
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• Try oil pulling. Swish organic oil (such as coconut oil) in your mouth for a few minutes or up to 20 minutes for more comprehensive benefits, then spit it out (do not swallow it). Oil pulling has shown to be effective in reducing plaque formation, combating gingivitis, fighting halitosis, and reducing harmful bacteria in your oral microbiome.
• Chew oral probiotics. An oral probiotic can boost the number of helpful bacteria in your mouth, and chewing them is the most effective delivery system. They are best taken in the morning, right after you brush your teeth.
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• Breathe through your nose. Breathing through the nose keeps the mouth moisturized and provides valuable nitric oxide that helps the body heal and supports cardiovascular health. Mouth breathing or sleep disorders can cause the oral tissue to dry out, reducing the saliva that protects the teeth and leaving the teeth exposed to decay.
• Consider dental sealants. Technique and materials matter. Dental sealants are thin coatings that adhere to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. Covering the molars, and sometimes the premolars, can be an excellent option for certain high-risk patients, keeping bacteria and food particles out of the deep grooves and fissures and providing added protection for hard-to-reach teeth.
• Ensure adequate nutrition, vitamins, and minerals. Vitamins D3 and K2 are two critical nutrients for oral health. Together, they help build healthy enamel and dentin layers, contributing to a robust outer surface for the tooth. Fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, K, in general, are critical for dental and jaw development, as shown through the work of Dr. Weston Price. Dr. Steven Lin also goes into great detail about nutrients needed for optimal oral health in his excellent book, The Dental Diet. Other focus areas are Trace Minerals, Pre and Probiotics, Vit C, CoQ10, B Vitamins, Calcium, and Zinc. “Eat the Rainbow” daily!
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• See your dentist regularly. Schedule your twice-yearly visits with your dentist. Regular check-ups and cleanings can help catch cavities early when they can still be remineralized with home remedies. Once tooth decay damages the deeper dentin of your teeth or reaches the nerve or pulp of the tooth, you will need to see a dentist for treatment.