Cavities Aren’t Inevitable: What They Are, How to Prevent Them, and Support Natural Healing

Cavities are one of the most common dental issues, and one of the most misunderstood. Many people think they’re a sign of poor brushing, but there’s more to the story. At Integrative Family Dentistry, we approach cavities holistically, addressing the root cause and supporting your body’s natural ability to repair.

What Is a Cavity?

A cavity (also called dental caries) is a hole or area of decay in the tooth caused by acid-producing bacteria. These bacteria feed on sugar and carbs, creating acids that wear away enamel.

It’s a dynamic process - demineralization (loss of minerals) and remineralization (rebuilding) happen constantly. Cavities form when demineralization outpaces your body’s ability to repair.

How to Prevent Cavities

Prevention isn’t just about brushing and flossing, though those help! It’s also about supporting the oral microbiome, saliva flow, and strong tooth enamel.

✅ Nutrient-rich diet – especially vitamins A, D, K2, and minerals like calcium and phosphorus
✅ Limit sugar & frequent snacking
✅ Support nasal breathing (mouth breathing dries the mouth and reduces saliva’s protective power)
✅ Hydrate to keep saliva flowing
✅ Use remineralizing toothpaste (like hydroxyapatite!)
✅ Avoid toxins that disrupt the oral microbiome (like triclosan or SLS in conventional products)

Can Cavities Heal?

Yes, early cavities (incipient lesions) can remineralize if caught early and supported properly. This includes:

• Using non-toxic, mineral-rich toothpaste

• Regular dental checkups and early detection

• Addressing breathing, diet, and oral habits

• Avoiding unnecessary drilling when repair is possible

Once a cavity becomes deep enough to breach the enamel, it can’t be reversed but with early intervention, fillings aren’t always necessary.

At Integrative Family Dentistry, we look beyond the drill and help your smile heal from the inside out.