Just because you have a pearly white smile doesn’t mean you have healthy enamel. Enamel erosion can happen without discoloring your teeth. That is why we strongly recommend visiting Giri Palani, DDS, FICOI and Dr. Palani so that we can find out if your enamel is healthy or not.
Tooth Enamel Cannot Regenerate
The enamel is the translucent white layer that covers the surface of your tooth and protects it from decay. Although enamel is extremely hard, it can weaken due to poor food choices, lifestyle habits, age, disease, trauma and a number of other factors.
The body can recover small losses of minerals from the enamel. However, if decay progresses, the enamel will not be able to regenerate and it will leave your teeth vulnerable to infection.
Maintaining healthy enamel should be the top priority when it comes to oral health care. Fortunately, there are several ways you can do that.
Avoid Demineralizing Food
Fermented carbohydrates that are found in sugary foods are the biggest enemy of your enamel as they react with the bacteria in your mouth to produce acid, which destroys enamel. That is why it is important to minimize the consumption of these types of food.
Use Fluoride
You can remineralize your enamel by using dental products containing fluoride. This mineral covers the surface of the enamel and provides added protection against bacteria. We may also recommend you drink fluorinated water, use fluoride supplements or have a professional fluoride treatment with us.
Good Oral Care Regimen
Using hard-bristled toothbrushes and brushing aggressively can damage the enamel. It is best to use soft-bristled toothbrushes angled at 45 degrees in short sweeping strokes or circular motion. Brush your teeth for at least two minutes and do not forget to brush your teeth process.
The saliva produced after brushing your teeth also helps to protect your enamel from demineralization.
Eat Remineralizing Food
Nutritionally balanced food, like fibrous fruit and veggies, lean protein, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products all help in enamel remineralization. They also produce saliva which can balance the pH levels of your mouth and neutralize the acid produced by sugary food.
Weak enamel is one of the most common dental issues; however, with just a little bit of care, you can prevent your teeth from wearing down before your time. To maintain a healthy enamel, call us at (310) 894-8337 today to schedule an appointment with us.
