Frequently Asked Questions
What causes cavities?
Cavities can be formed by a combination of factors including but not limited to: poor oral hygiene; the build-up of plaque, which is a sticky film where bacteria breed; a diet high in sugars and foods that harm enamel; and dry mouth.
What do cavities look like?
A cavity is a hole in your tooth. This hole isn't always easy to identify, but if you see discoloration or a brown or black spot, it's likely to be a cavity. We cover this in greater detail, along with other signs that may indicate you have a cavity, in our post on what does a cavity look like?
How do I get rid of a cavity?
Despite the internet touting many natural home remedies, there really is only one way to get rid of a cavity, and that's by going to the dentist to get a filling.
How do I avoid or prevent cavities?
Practicing good oral hygiene is key to cavity-prevention. You should floss and brush your teeth twice daily after meals. Limit the amount of sugary foods and drinks that you consume. And make sure you visit your dentist at least once a year for a check-up. Products for cavities that contain fluoride can also be used to support your teeth.
What is the active ingredient in toothpaste that prevents cavities?
Fluoride is the most common and effective ingredient in toothpaste for preventing cavities. It has been scientifically proven to help strengthen tooth enamel and make it more resistant to decay caused by acids from plaque bacteria. Our toothpaste for sensitive teeth, hydrating toothpaste, and post-whitening toothpaste contain the highest amount of fluoride permitted in over-the-counter toothpastes.
Can I reverse small cavities with these products?
Unfortunately, no. When it comes to cavities, prevention is the best defense. You cannot reverse a cavity or hole in the tooth that requires a filling. However, these products are formulated to reverse early-stage enamel damage - often visible as "white spots" - by intensely supporting the natural remineralization process.
What are the key ingredients in your oral care products for cavity-prevention?
Our cavity prevention approach is based on a dual-action system that is scientifically proven to be highly effective in promoting remineralization. These antioxidant toothpastes carry the maximum over-the-counter amount of Fluoride, a scientifically proven mineral that remineralizes enamel and actively strengthens the tooth structure to make it highly resistant to acid and bacteria. The toothpastes also carry Nano-Hydroxyapatite, a naturally occurring calcium mineral that works on a microscopic level to fill in enamel micro-cracks and helps repair the early signs of cavities and erosion.