How to Protect Enamel From Erosion
June 29, 2023 10:05 pmEnamel is the lattice-like layer of crystalline minerals on the outside of your teeth. Because it protects the nerves inside your tooth, it’s very hard and strong. Enamel erosion can result in sensitivity and increases your risk for tooth decay! Here are four ways to protect your enamel from thinning:
- Cut Back on Sugar
- Eat Enamel-Fortifying Foods
- Maintain Great Oral Hygiene
- Visit Our Office Twice a Year
When you eat lots of sugary foods and drinks, more bacteria builds up in your mouth. The bacteria feast on the sugar and produce acid, which erodes your tooth enamel. Help protect your smile by limiting foods with the most sugar, like juice, desserts, candies, sodas, and so on. Watch out for acidic foods and drinks too.
Strengthen your tooth enamel by eating a variety of nutritious foods, especially those with calcium and phosphorus. Calcium is found in foods like milk, cheese, yogurt, beans, lentils, nuts, and spinach. Phosphorus, which helps rebuild tooth enamel, is in fish, poultry, lean meats, and eggs.
Bacteria weakens your tooth enamel so it’s important to keep your teeth as clean as possible. Brush twice a day (once in the morning and once before going to bed) with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss once a day to prevent bacteria from building up in the form of plaque and tartar.
At your routine checkups, your dental team will remove plaque and tartar (which is hardened plaque) and check for problems like teeth grinding, gum disease, and demineralization. Demineralization, which is the first stage of tooth decay, occurs when your enamel is temporarily weakened. With improved oral hygiene and a nutritious diet, you can often reverse demineralization before it becomes permanently damaged in the form of a cavity.
Please contact us to schedule an appointment with our team at Cullman Cosmetic & Family Dentistry in Cullman, AL!
Categorised in: Dental Tips, Preventive Dental Care