Can Tooth Enamel Be Repaired?

Did you know that enamel is the strongest tissue in the human body? However, just because it’s even stronger than our bones doesn’t mean it’s indestructible. There are many factors that can weaken this layer and, fortunately, there are ways to strengthen and restore weakened tooth enamel with the right care. So what can we do if we’ve experienced weakened enamel? Can damaged tooth enamel be repaired?

Can Tooth Enamel Be Repaired?

What is enamel?

Enamel is the shiny, white outer layer of our teeth that protects the inner layers. Because it contains no living cells, once it’s been completely damaged, it cannot be repaired. However, acid-weakened enamel paired with proper attentiveness can be. It’s important to catch it early to prevent any further damage. So if you suspect your enamel is weak, you’ll want to follow these tips.

Causes and signs

The most common culprits that cause tooth enamel loss are acidic foods and drinks. This means fruity drinks, sugary and starchy foods like white bread, soft drinks, excessive amounts of vitamin C, and even medications such as aspirin. Some environmental factors and habits can also lead to enamel erosion. These can include dry mouth, GI issues, or acid reflux, aggressive brushing or flossing, frequent vomiting, and biting into hard objects. And finally, genetics can play a role here as some of us simply have a disposition for plaque build-up.

Some signs that you’re experiencing enamel loss may be discolored and yellowing teeth rounded edges due to surface loss, and pain or sensitivity. Let’s take a look at how you can prevent enamel loss and how it can be repaired.

Preventing and repairing enamel loss

One of the most obvious steps in keeping your enamel healthy and strong is a proper oral care routine. This means brushing your teeth at least twice a day for at least two minutes with a soft toothbrush. Ensuring you get all areas of the mouth thoroughly and consistently is key. Flossing and gargling with fluoride mouthwash should also be part of your routine. Additionally, it’s vital to visit your dentist on a regular basis, even if that means just once a year.

Avoiding foods and beverages high in sugar is another crucial way to keep your enamel strong. Limiting coffee, soda, candy, cookies, and bread can go a long way. If you do decide to indulge in sugary sweets from time to time, it’s recommended to rinse your mouth with water immediately after and wait about an hour to brush. Since acidity softens your enamel, brushing right afterward can actually further damage them due to the friction. If you make the decision to forego sweets entirely, swap them out for fiber-rich fruits and vegetables instead. Not only do they keep your mouth clean, they also increase beloved saliva production. Another way you can strengthen your enamel is with sugar-free gum. It’s a great way to get that saliva flowing that’s essential for healthy enamel. Make sure you look for gum with the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

Using some sort of fluoride treatment can really benefit you in your repair journey. It will help strengthen the minerals and will cause the enamel to resist erosion. Whether it’s toothpaste or mouthwash, reversing the damage is possible. Pronamel, in particular, is one of the leading toothpaste recommended by dentists.

Are you a grinder?

Grinding your teeth can be detrimental to your enamel. It can be difficult to detect as it usually happens in your slumber. If left untreated, it can affect the outcome of your repair process. Make sure to ask your dentist if you suspect it. They also know how to look for signs.

Treatment options

If your teeth have reached a point of no return, there are still options. Some of the most common treatments are crowns, bonding, and fillings. Crowns literally cover the teeth to give it back its shape, strength, and appearance. They’re strong, sturdy, and long-lasting. Bonding is a tooth-colored composite resin that attaches just to the damaged part instead of the whole tooth. And fillings will ensure that the life of your damaged tooth is preserved much longer than what it would on its own.

There is hope for enamel!

There is hope when it comes to repair weakened enamel. With enamel being the strongest tissue in our bodies, it’s crucial that we treat it with care. This means doing what we can to prevent erosion. If you’re past the stage of prevention, there are treatment options that you can discuss with your dentist at your next appointment.

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