No, salt cannot remove existing cavities. However, salt water can play a role in oral health and cavity management.
While salt itself doesn't "remove" the decayed portion of a tooth that constitutes a cavity, saltwater rinses can have beneficial effects that may help to slow the progression of cavities and aid in overall oral health.
How Salt Water Helps with Cavities
The key takeaway here is that saltwater cannot undo the damage of an existing cavity but it can help manage the environment within your mouth in a way that makes it less favorable to the bacteria that cause cavities.
- Bacteria Reduction: Saltwater has natural antibacterial properties.
According to the provided reference, saltwater can destroy bacteria that leads to the formation of cavities. This is crucial because these bacteria are what cause tooth decay. - Slowing Cavity Expansion: By reducing the bacterial load in the mouth, salt water rinses can help to slow the progression of a cavity. The reference states, Swish with salt water as soon as you find out you have a cavity and it just might slow its expansion.
- Wound Healing: Saltwater is often recommended by oral health professionals for wounds or infections in the mouth due to its ability to cleanse and promote healing, creating an oral environment less likely to aid cavity development.
Saltwater Rinsing: Not a Replacement for Professional Care
It is important to understand that salt water is not a replacement for professional dental care.
- Professional Treatment is Necessary: Cavities need professional treatment from a dentist, such as fillings or other procedures.
- Regular Dental Visits: Regular checkups and professional cleanings remain essential for long-term oral health.
How to Make a Saltwater Rinse:
- Dissolve about 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water.
- Swish the solution in your mouth for about 30 seconds and then spit it out.
- Do not swallow the saltwater solution.
- You can rinse 2-3 times daily, or as directed by your dentist.
Summary:
| Aspect | Saltwater Rinsing | Professional Dental Care |
|---|---|---|
| Cavity Removal | Does not remove cavities | Removes cavities via fillings or other procedures |
| Cavity Slowing | May slow cavity expansion | Directly treats cavities and prevents them |
| Bacteria | Helps destroy bacteria, reducing bacterial load | Targets and treats bacteria-caused issues professionally |
| Wound Care | Aids in wound healing and reducing inflammation | Provides professional treatments for wound healing |
| Overall Role | An adjunct to oral hygiene to help maintain oral health, not a replacement for dental care | Necessary for treating existing cavities and maintaining oral health |
In conclusion, while saltwater has some beneficial properties for managing bacteria and promoting oral health, it is not a solution to remove existing cavities.
