Dr.Weston A. Price (1870-1948), a Cleveland dentist, observed increasing dental decay and physical degeneration in his own dental practice. In his search for the causes he turned from test tubes and microscopes to seek evidence among human beings. Dr. Price sought the factors responsible for beautiful, healthy teeth among the people who still had them- the isolated “primitives.”(source)

Some lived in primitive-type societies and ate primitive-type diets (on the left). Others ate a more modernized diet (right).

Left: primitive diet. Right: modernized diet. (Source)

Dr. Price analyzed the native foods of these isolated peoples and found that their daily fare contained at least FOUR times the water-soluble vitamins and minerals and TEN times the fat-soluble vitamins as the standard Western diet. These populations prioritized animal foods in abundance – butter, fish eggs, shellfish, organ meats, eggs and animal fats. These foods were often considered ‘sacred’ by these communities, but were deemed unhealthy by governing health agencies in the West!

In his seminal (and long) book Nutrition and Physical Degeneration, he shared his discovery that many primitive societies have perfect tooth spacing, wide jaws that don’t crowd teeth, and no evidence of cavities –all with NO dentists or modern toothpaste. Others with more modern diets had lots of decay.

We’ve been made to think the only way to avoid cavities is to reduce sugar and brush our teeth. Fluoride has been the cornerstone of cavity prevention, but concerns over its debilitating side-effects and IQ-lowering effects have spurred interest in natural alternatives.

Understanding Enamel Remineralization

Enamel remineralization is a natural process where minerals are redeposited into tooth enamel after they have been removed by acids. This process is crucial because it helps to repair enamel before cavities form, keeping teeth strong and healthy. When we eat or drink, especially acidic or sugary substances, our enamel temporarily loses minerals.

Thankfully, our saliva is a natural tooth remineralizer, packed with calcium and phosphate that help to remineralize tooth enamel. However, to effectively re-mineralize teeth, a balance must be maintained, and that’s where a supportive oral care routine comes in.

Although remineralization can occur, we need the right oral environment. This involves diet and specific oral hygiene.

Our bodies were designed to heal. Broken bones and damaged tissues can regenerate when properly cared for, so it makes sense that our teeth could also regenerate.

Our daughter followed this recently –though not to the letter  –and was able to reverse 2 small cavities.

9 natural substances and practices that not only prevent cavities but also remineralize enamel:

1. Vitamin D

Studies indicate that adequate vitamin D levels can enhance enamel remineralization and prevent cavities by ensuring that the body has sufficient calcium to rebuild enamel. (PubMed Source) The best source of Vit D is still the sun.

2. Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil

Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil in the mouth. Coconut oil, in particular, has antimicrobial properties that can reduce harmful bacteria. Regular oil pulling can help reduce plaque buildup and support enamel health. (PubMed Source)

3. A Good Probiotic (such as this one, following label directions)
Probiotics can balance the oral microbiome by inhibiting harmful bacteria and promoting beneficial ones. This balance is crucial for facilitating the remineralization process. (PubMed Source)

4. Xylitol or Toothpaste with Xylitol as the first or second ingredient like Himalaya

Xylitol, a natural sugar alcohol found in birch trees, has been shown to reduce cavity-causing bacteria and promote saliva production, which is essential for remineralization. (PubMed Source) I’ve been using xylitol toothpaste (with excellent ingredients and results!) for over 2 years. Fluoride free, triclosan free, SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) free, carrageenan free and gluten free too. I also suck on these cinnamon mints between meals while I sit here and write.

5. Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste like this one

Hydroxyapatite, a naturally occurring mineral form of calcium apatite, mimics the structure of tooth enamel. Studies show that hydroxyapatite toothpaste can effectively remineralize enamel and reduce sensitivity. This approach is gaining traction as a safer alternative to fluoride. (PubMed source)

6. or Fluoride-Free Remineralizing Toothpaste like David’s

Toothpastes containing ingredients like calcium phosphates and natural herbs promote enamel repair and reducing cavities. These ingredients work by supplying essential minerals directly to the enamel, enhancing its natural repair processes. (PubMed Source) Brush teeth thoroughly for at least 2 minutes.

7. Green Tea

Green tea is rich in antioxidants and contains natural fluoride, which can help reduce plaque and promote remineralization. Regular consumption of green tea has been linked to improved oral health and a reduction in the incidence of cavities. (PubMed Source)

Resource: The Lowdown On Chemicals & Pesticides In Some Popular Tea Brands

8. Calcium and Phosphorus in Food
Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body. Minerals like calcium and phosphorus protect and rebuild tooth enamel. Foods high in calcium include cheese, milk, plain yogurt, leafy greens, and almonds. Protein-rich foods like meat, poultry, fish, milk and eggs are great sources of phosphorus. Source the cleanest, least processed possible. (Harvard Source)

Please supplement with food: Calcium supplementation can cause harm without understanding this vital information.

9. Grape Seed Extract

Grape seed extract (GSE), high in proanthocyanidins, has been shown to strengthen dentin and promote remineralization. GSE can also enhance the effects of fluoride-free toothpaste, making it a powerful addition to oral care routines. (PubMed Source)

Weston A. Price’s Protocol For Reversal Of Dental Decay

Diet plays a pivotal role in enamel remineralization. A diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports not just overall health but specifically aids in the process to remineralize teeth naturally.

Once Dr. Price had reached his conclusions, he was able to formulate a protocol for the treatment and reversal of dental decay, which he also applied to many other instances of poor health with dramatically positive results. ***Primary to his protocol were high quality cod liver oil and butter oil in equal amounts as providers of vitamins A, D and K2, and abundant fresh, whole, raw milk as a high quality source of minerals and fat soluble vitamins.***

The significance of Weston A. Price’s work went unrecognized in his day, but in our age of rapidly increasing degenerative disease and illness it is critical that we understand his findings and apply them in the name of good health. You can also gain more on how to reverse degenerative disease in Sally Fallon’s excellent book “Nourishing Traditions” – an education and cookbook rolled into one!

How Long Does It Take to Remineralize Teeth?

It isn’t something that happens overnight. It can take several months or longer to strengthen and remineralize your teeth.

Given the deteriorating state of our world, I ask myself, “If there were no dentist available for a time, wouldn’t it be nice if every home had this information and could act preventatively?”

Resource: Dr. Bill Wolfe’s List Of Homeopathic Dental Remedies

“Your teeth are like a flock of shorn ewes coming up from washing. Each of them has a twin, and none among them is missing.” ~Song of Solomon 4:2