Home remedies for tooth decay can be somewhat helpful if done correctly. But if they are used incorrectly, they are not only not useful, but also lead to many (sometimes dangerous) side effects. Since these methods are very common and most people use them, in this article we are going to discuss the most important side effects of home remedies for decayed teeth.

The most important danger of home remedies for decayed teeth

The truth is that home remedies for tooth decay have a dark side even if they are done correctly. That is to cover the potential risk of continuing tooth decay and reaching acute and serious stages. Home treatments often cover the symptoms and slow down the decay of the damaged tooth, but the main problem still remains. Infection and decay reaching the pulp and root of the tooth can cause serious damage to the oral tissues (such as cellulitis of the jaw).

Consequences of improper home remedies for decayed teeth

In case of improper implementation of home remedies for decayed teeth, the following side effects can be observed:

• Gum tissue irritation (inflammation, swelling)
• mucosal burns
Dry mouth
• Erosion of tooth enamel
• Increasing tooth sensitivity
• Changing the natural flora of the mouth
Allergic reactions
• Microbial resistance and occurrence of secondary infection
• Changing the color of teeth and tongue
• Making bad breath worse

In the following, we will examine the causes of these complications for the most common home remedies for decayed teeth.

complications of salt water

The side effects of home treatment of decayed teeth with salt water occur due to the high concentration of salt. Too much salt by raising the osmotic pressure and destroying the cells, causes gum tissue irritation, mucous burns and increased dry mouth.

If you want Know the correct way to gargle salt water

home treatment of rotten teeth with lemon water and vinegar

Lemon juice and vinegar are common ingredients for treating the bad smell of rotten teeth. These substances have strong acid properties and if they are used in thick form and many times, they weaken and destroy tooth enamel. In this case, the tooth becomes more vulnerable and sensitive.

Complications of home treatment of decayed teeth with baking soda

Gargling with concentrated baking soda increases the pH inside the mouth and disrupts its natural flora. The natural flora of the mouth is an immune shield against pathogenic bacteria. Its weakening provides the basis for serious infections. In addition, gargling concentrated baking soda intensifies the dryness of the mouth, which leads to an increase in bad breath.

Putting herbs like garlic and ginger on the broken tooth

Home treatment of a decayed tooth by placing herbs such as garlic, ginger, etc. on it can cause inflammation, allergic reaction and mucosa damage. Because these kinds of plants have sulfur and phenolic compounds that are considered strong stimulants.

self-treatment with antibiotics

Many people use self-treatment with antibiotics to treat decayed teeth at home. Excessive and incorrect use of antibiotics causes various complications such as secondary bacterial resistance, dry mouth and destroying the natural flora of the mouth. If the antibiotic is used in a systemic (food) form, its effect is much greater than these cases and it can cause serious problems in the functioning of the digestive system, liver and kidney. In terms of scientific classification, antibiotics are only for the clinical treatment of diseases and must be prescribed by a doctor. But unfortunately, in Iran, it is used arbitrarily as a home treatment.

Did you know the side effects of frequent use of antibiotics for toothache and dental problems? To get to knowEffects of improper use of mouthwashes

Mouthwashes are available both OTC (over the counter) for home treatment and prescription (prescription). Medicinal mouthwashes, if used for a long time or with a high concentration, cause tooth discoloration, dry mouth, destroy the natural flora of the mouth, change the sense of taste, and irritate the mucous membrane.

Even improper use of some mouthwashes during orthodontic treatment can stain the teeth. yellow Non-prescription mouthwashes are safer and contain ingredients such as zinc, mint, aloe vera, etc. However, in case of excessive use or sensitivity, they can cause dry mouth, bad breath, irritation and gum burning.

The final word about home remedies for decayed teeth

If the home remedies for a decayed tooth are done correctly, they can eliminate some of its symptoms such as bad smell, inflammation and infection. However, due to individual mistakes such as high concentration of salt in salt water, use of undiluted lemon juice, excessive use of mouthwashes, some side effects occur. These complications should not be taken lightly because some of them can cause serious health problems. The safest way is to prepare with standard instructions and based on reliable sources. Also, if you see any unusual symptoms such as inflammation, excessive redness, swelling, etc., consult a doctor immediately.

The more important point is that home remedies for decayed teeth are more of a temporary and auxiliary measure than a real treatment. These methods hide the main problem and cannot be effective and useful in the long run.