The outer surface of your teeth is enamel, the hardest mineral in your body, even stronger than your bones. Yet it is vulnerable to erosion and damage and cannot be rebuilt. Once penetrated, periodontal bacteria can enter into the softer dentin and even the inner core of teeth, ultimately leading to cavities, painful dead roots, and loss of teeth. One common symptom of damaged enamel is tooth sensitivity (for which there are special toothpastes, but they cannot restore it).
Fortunately, enamel can be protected. Let’s start with the basics of oral care: use a soft-bristled brush (hard ones harm enamel) to brush from the gum line to the top of each tooth on both sides for two minutes after breakfast and dinner. You only need to floss once before you go to sleep, but be thorough, holding the string against each side of every tooth. Also, use a periodontal mouthwash. Because no one has the tools or techniques of a dental hygienist, it is also vital that you have a professional cleaning at least twice a year.
Second, avoid too much sticky or hard foods, whether popcorn kernels, hard bread, gummy candy, dried fruit, and even protein bars (brush right afterwards for the sweet stuff).
Likewise, minimize sodas, which have acid carbonation that erodes enamel. Too much juice or coffee can leave sugar on the teeth and gums which will attract bacteria. Drink water ASAP after consuming these or even floss or brush, if you can.
If you have acid reflux, talk to your dentist or doctor about how to prevent it (if you binge drink, be aware that vomiting erodes enamel).
A chronically dry mouth will result in eroded enamel. Saliva neutralizes acids and rinses off bits of leftover food to prevent the build-up of plaque, the sticky bacterial film on teeth that leads to periodontal disease. This is sometimes the side effect of medications and the symptoms can be bad breath. There are dental mouthwashes and over-the-counter solutions that can help correct this. Even chewing sugar-free gums stimulates saliva.
Avoiding accidents that can chip the enamel is obviously important. When you play sports (even so-called non-contact ones like mountain biking and skiing), wear a mouthguard customized by your dentist (off-the-shelf ones do not provide adequate protection).
If you are told by a partner that you grind your teeth at night, your dentist can repair the damage and create a personalized nightguard, which you wear while you sleep.
Stop bad habits that can damage enamel, like pulling off clothes or opening packages with teeth, chewing on pens and pencils, fingernails and ice.
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity or are concerned that your enamel has been worn down, set an appointment today to have Dr. Ada do a complete dental examination.
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