Last Updated on November 11, 2022 by Dr. Saumya Saluja
Quick Take
According to a Facebook post, brushing your teeth after eating sweets could reverse tooth decay over time. We cross-checked the assertion. Our findings indicate that the claim is False.
The Claim
According to a Facebook post titled ‘Did You Know?’ brushing teeth after sugar consumption would gradually reverse dental decay. Although brushing your teeth can help prevent caries, it cannot reverse tooth decay. The screenshot of the same has been shared below.
Fact Check
What is the objective of brushing your teeth?
Plaque formation in our modern society is accelerated by refined, processed foods, as well as various environmental factors. And this plaque buildup is to blame for a number of gum diseases and the formation of tooth cavities. Thus, brushing is the most fundamental way to prevent and remove plaque buildup. Further, brushing teeth on a regular basis also aids in the removal of mild tooth stains, the freshening of your breath, and the maintenance of good dental health.
Is it possible to reverse tooth decay by brushing?
No, not at all. It is critical to understand that tooth decay is irreversible and should only be treated by a dentist. This is because dental decay represents the damaged organic portions of the teeth. Although enamel remineralization occurs early on, it cannot be reversed once bacterial infiltration reaches the deeper layers. And the existing damage necessitates the intervention of a professional. Furthermore, these cavities form as a result of a combination of causative agents. Among them are poor oral hygiene, as well as genetic and environmental factors. As a result, maintaining good oral hygiene may be critical to preventing caries. Brushing, on the other hand, will not be able to reverse the established lesion.
We asked Dr. Pooja Bhardwaj (BDS), our dental expert, if brushing could reverse tooth decay. She described dental caries as the irreversible demineralization of inorganic tooth matter as well as the destruction of organic tooth matter. She further explains that studies show that remineralization takes 3–4 months and that once a cavity forms, it cannot be reversed simply by brushing. In addition, a dentist may recommend proper brushing techniques, good oral hygiene through flossing and tongue cleaning, and a diet rich in fiber, calcium, and phosphates in the early stages when the cavity is small. Furthermore, if the bacteria Streptococcus mutans spreads deeper into the tooth structure, dental professionals must treat it with fillings or restorations. Therefore, one should visit the dentist at least once a year.
How can tooth decay be prevented?
In order to effectively resist the threat that tooth decay poses, an appropriate preventive strategy must be employed. However, in the vast majority of cases, tooth decay can be avoided by reducing the risk factors that contribute to its occurrence. These precautions primarily include practicing good oral hygiene. A good oral hygiene routine includes the use of fluoride-containing toothpaste, mouthwash, flossing, and toothbrushing. Other measures include eating more nutrient-rich foods and quitting smoking.
Certain natural remedies have been suggested in addition to these. These could help to strengthen the enamel and keep it from demineralizing. These mainly include calcium-, phosphorus-, and vitamin D-rich foods; oil pulling; aloe vera tooth gel; sugar-free gum; and phytic acid-rich cereals and legumes. Please keep in mind that these are all preventative measures and not treatments. Routine dental examinations and professional cleanings are thus essential.
THIP MEDIA TAKE: Thus, we can conclude that tooth decay is irreversible. Besides that, tooth damage could only be avoided. Despite the fact that brushing is an important preventive measure, it cannot reverse the situation, and it should only be handled by a dentist. Hence, the assertion is false.
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