At Zerolla, we firmly believe in empowering our customers to tackle the root cause of dental issues, rather than just addressing the symptoms. This approach is key when it comes to healing cavities.

Many of us experience dental anxiety, often related to cavities. Unfortunately, fillings are commonly used as a first response to decay, even if the decay is minor. While some cavities certainly do need fillings – especially those that reach the nerve and cause pain – there are ways to reverse smaller cavities naturally. Much of this power lies in the foods we eat.

Prevention of cavities

Of course, the best way to deal with cavities is to prevent them altogether. The fantastic news is that the same diet that helps to heal existing cavities also works to keep new ones from forming. But before we dive into which foods to eat (and avoid), let’s go over the basics of cavity formation and the role food plays in this process.

Four key factors behind cavities

1. Saliva: Its mineral content, volume, pH, and more.
2. Oral Microbiome: The mix of bacteria in your mouth – some helpful, some harmful.
3. Diet: Ensuring you’re getting the right nutrients for remineralisation.
4. Frequency: The interaction of these factors to create conditions for decay.

The foods you eat impact both your saliva and microbiome, and when you eat the wrong ones, you risk creating a perfect environment for decay-causing bacteria. The quality of your diet also determines whether your body has the minerals it needs to support your teeth’s natural remineralisation. This process helps restore lost minerals in teeth, allowing you to keep the same healthy set for as long as possible.

Healing cavities with diet

There’s no doubt that some foods promote cavities, but others can actually help heal and prevent them. Let’s have a look at the key nutrients your teeth need to heal cavities and where to find them in food.

• Calcium: Vital for building and maintaining strong teeth, calcium also boosts saliva production, which helps replace minerals lost through eating. While dairy is a well-known source, non-dairy foods like seafood, broccoli, leafy greens, and nuts are equally beneficial.

• Vitamin D: Often called the sunshine vitamin, vitamin D enhances your body’s ability to absorb calcium and phosphorus, supporting dental health. You can boost levels through sun exposure or by eating mushrooms, egg yolks, and oily fish.

• Vitamin K2: Working hand-in-hand with vitamin D, K2 ensures calcium and phosphorus are available for remineralisation. Found in foods like egg yolks, cod liver oil, and grass-fed dairy products, K2 is essential for dental health.

• Magnesium: This nutrient regulates the balance of calcium and phosphorus. You’ll find magnesium in foods like pumpkin seeds, cacao, leafy greens, and avocado.

• Phosphorus: Essential for remineralisation, phosphorus can be found in eggs, meat, and dairy.

Foods to avoid

We now have a good idea of which foods to eat to support healing, but what about those we should avoid? We all know sugar is bad for teeth, but it’s not the only culprit. Here are a few more to watch:

• Foods high in Phytic Acid: These, like grains, beans, and nuts, can inhibit the absorption of essential minerals like calcium and magnesium.
• Simple starches: Foods such as white bread and pasta quickly break down into sugars that fuel bacteria in the mouth.
• Sugary foods and drinks: Sweets, fruit juices, and fizzy drinks offer easy fuel for decay-causing bacteria while crowding out nutrient-rich foods.
• Dried fruit: While convenient, dried fruits contain concentrated sugars that stick to teeth.
• Acidic foods and drinks: Citrus, coffee, and fizzy drinks can wear down enamel, so rinse with water after consuming these.

Final thoughts

Focus on foods rich in vitamin D, K2, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus to support natural remineralisation and keep cavities at bay. Remember, avoiding sugary and acidic foods is just one part of the puzzle. The key to lasting dental health is finding balance – eating the right foods and being mindful of those that can impact your teeth.