What I don't understand is that no one addresses the bacterial component of cavities. I just had some work done and my dentist clearly stated that cavities are caused by bacteria eating through the enamel. I get that poor diet contributes to calcium loss and so the body will re-strengthen teeth given improved nutrition, however this will not do anything to address the bacterial infection problem.
Bacteria don't actually hurt the teeth directly - they just sit there and they make an acid that can etch the teeth, but if the teeth are strong they resist the acid, plus repair any areas that are eroded.
Also saliva contains immune components that can stop the bacteria. Bacteria may be the final component, but the causes of decay lie elsewhere.
It's not really an infection either, anymore than the gazillions of bacteria living on skin are.
The bacteria don't eat the enamel. They feed on sugars (and other carbs, but especially sugars) in the mouth, then excrete an acid that attacks tooth enamel. They live on teeth, especially in the crevices where they won't get knocked off, so that's where the acid is concentrated. Diet can help reduce the incidence of decay in the first place by reducing sugars in the mouth.
