Yes, a cavity can be reversed, but only in the earliest stage. This means you or your dentist must detect the cavity at stage 1. Cavities at this stage can be reversed with a fluoride treatment that remineralizes the tooth and strengthens the enamel.
How a Cavity Develops
Cavities start when bacteria is trapped in areas of the teeth, including crevices, along the gum, and between teeth. Bacteria feed off sugars and starches and begin to eat through the tooth enamel.
Eventually, a pit develops, and this is a cavity. However, this is a later-stage development that typically requires a filling to repair.
Stage 1: Early Detection is Key
A first-stage cavity looks much different. In fact, you won’t be able to see the cavity itself, but you can see the symptoms. It will look like white or dark spots on your teeth. This happens weeks or months after bacteria first attack teeth.
⏱️ At this stage, you don’t have a lot of time for reversal. Your enamel began demineralization within two days of exposure.
How Long Does the First Stage Last?
The length of time in the first stage of a cavity depends on many factors:
Diet
Reducing sugar and acidic foods stops bacteria’s fuel
Oral Hygiene
Proper brushing and flossing practices are essential
Enamel Thickness
Primarily genetic, varies by individual
Saliva Flow
Good flow helps remineralize enamel naturally
Prevention Strategies
Eat Smart
Nutritious fibrous foods like apples, carrots, and broccoli help keep your teeth clean as they gently scrub your teeth
Chew Sugarless Gum
Increase saliva flow by chewing food more and using sugarless gum
See Your Dentist
The best option is to see a dentist once you notice white or dark spots to increase your chances of getting it reversed
How Is a Cavity Reversed?
Fluoride treatments add minerals to the tooth enamel to reverse early demineralization occurring in the first stage. This strengthens the enamel and prevents bacteria from growing, reversing the cavity.
✨ The procedure isn’t invasive and causes no pain
It can be done at the end of a tooth cleaning session. Fluoride treatments aren’t the same as providing a fluoride rinse at the end of a dental visit. They are an additional procedure that comes with an additional cost.
Fluoride Treatment Methods
Foam or Gel
Applied in custom tray placed over teeth
Varnish
Painted directly onto teeth with brush
Concentrated Rinse
Swished around in the mouth
⚠️ Important: Each method takes a few minutes to apply. None are rinsed off because they are absorbed into the teeth. Remember not to eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes while the fluoride is absorbed.
Do Fluoride Treatments Work to Reduce Cavities?
Topical fluoride treatments are recommended for those at high risk of cavities. A study published in the special issue of Oral Healthcare: Diagnosis, Prevention and Treatment shows that fluoride treatments restore enamel by replacing lost minerals, which reverses cavities.
2024 Study Results (200 children ages 8-10)
Lower cavities vs fluoride toothpaste alone
Plaque reduction
Less gum inflammation
Higher enamel strength
Ease of Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride treatments can be used every three to six months and are highly recommended for those in high-risk cavity groups.
They are helpful for children because they aren’t invasive, can be done as part of a regular dental appointment, and help reverse and prevent cavities.
The Bottom Line on Reversing Cavities
The secret to reversing cavities is discovering them in time. Seeing your dentist for routine exams and cleanings can help find them while they can still be reversed. Adding a fluoride treatment during the same session can reverse them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will insurance pay for fluoride treatments?
It depends on the insurance. Fluoride treatments are a preventive measure, so some insurance and government programs may cover them. You will need your dentist to check for coverage.
How much do fluoride treatments cost?
It varies based on the dental office, where you live, and the type of fluoride treatment you get. Generally, a fluoride treatment costs between $70 to $200. Some dental offices include them as a standard part of cleaning, but then you pay more for the exam and cleaning, which can cost between $125 to $500.
Are fluoride treatments guaranteed to reverse a cavity?
No, fluoride treatments aren’t guaranteed to reverse a cavity, but the odds are favorable. It is well recognized to prevent cavity growth and tooth decay.
Will fluoride treatments make my teeth look funny?
No, fluoride treatments won’t turn your teeth a color or make them look odd afterward. You will need to avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes to give the fluoride time to work.