Tooth decay and cavities are among the world’s most common oral health problems. These problems are most often seen in children, teenagers and older adults. However, anyone can get cavities. Cavities are basically small holes that occur in the teeth as a result of tooth decay. This tooth decay happens due to the lack of dental hygiene and accumulation of bacteria and plaque. It can also be due to the lack of sufficient amount of minerals in the diet. For a long time, it was believed that only dentists can treat cavities. But, new natural and home remedies have shown that dental care is not always necessary.
SALT
Salt can be used to treat cavities due to its antiseptic and antibacterial properties. It can reduce inflammation, ease pain, draw out any infection and prevent growth of bacteria in the mouth.
How to use: Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt and a little mustard oil or lemon juice to make a paste. Massage the gums gently with this paste for a few minutes, then gargle with warm water. Repeat twice daily for a few days to kill bacteria.
CLOVE
Due to its anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antibacterial properties, clove can help alleviate pain and prevent the cavity from spreading.
Remedy 1: Dilute 2 to 3 drops of clove oil with 1/4 teaspoon of sesame seed oil. Put a few drops of this solution on a cotton ball and dab the solution on the affected tooth. Repeat every night before going to bed.
Remedy 2: Another option is to gently chew a whole clove to extract its oil. Then keep the clove under your tongue for several minutes.
BONE BROTH
Bone broth is a broth made of animal bones, such as poultry, beef, lamb and sometimes even bison, along with water. This broth has numerous beneficial qualities. It helps in improving your digestive system. It also strengthens your nail, hair and skin. The broth, a rich source of calcium and magnesium helps to remove cavities and fight tooth decay.
ONION
An individual can place a slice of onion on the infected tooth to treat the pain resulting from cavities. Regular consumption of onion can help in reducing the problem of tooth cavities. It is advisable for an individual to consume food items containing onion to deal with the problem of tooth cavities.
OIL PULLING
Oil pulling is an age-old practice that can reduce cavities as well as bleeding gums and bad breath. It helps clean the mouth of harmful bacteria that are responsible for different types of dental problems.
How to do: Put 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in your mouth. Gently swish it around for about 20 minutes. Spit it out and avoid gargling or swallowing the oil. Rinse your mouth out with warm water. Use salt water for added antimicrobial benefits. Brush your teeth as usual. Do this daily in the morning, on an empty stomach. This can also be done with sunflower or coconut oil.
TURMERIC
In Ayurveda, turmeric is often used to provide respite from cavity pain. It has antibacterial as well as anti-inflammatory properties that help keep the gums healthy and prevent tooth decay due to bacterial infection.
Remedy 1: Apply some turmeric powder on the affected teeth. Leave it on for a few minutes and then rinse well with warm water.
Remedy 2: Another option is to mix 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder with a little mustard oil and use it to massage your teeth and gums. Leave it on for 10 minutes and then spit it out.