Tooth enamel loss can result in a host of unpleasant symptoms and dental complications. Issues such as tooth sensitivity, pain, or chipping are all common among individuals who have suffered tooth enamel loss.Â
The good news is that by taking several easy, intentional steps, you can avoid future enamel loss and enjoy a healthy smile, all without taking too much effort.Â
Here at The Chicago Dental Studio, our team of dental professionals help our patients understand how to strengthen tooth enamel naturally and take care of their teeth so that they can enjoy the best dental health possible.
If you are looking for information on how to restore tooth enamel naturally, continue reading or get in touch with The Chicago Dental Studio today to schedule an appointment at our upscale dental studio.
Enamel Loss Causes
In order to understand how to mitigate tooth enamel loss, it’s essential to know what the primary culprits of enamel loss are. Once you are aware of the causes of enamel loss, you can adjust your lifestyle accordingly to avoid causing further damage.Â
Some of the main drivers of enamel loss include:
- Poor dental habits. These include neglecting to brush or floss, or avoiding the routine dental checkups.Â
- An unhealthy diet. A diet that consists of many sour foods, candy, acidic foods, etc. is detrimental to tooth enamel.Â
- Over-brushing or using a hard-bristled toothbrush. Over time, these practices erode tooth enamel.Â
- Smoking or using tobacco products. Smoking and tobacco usage are bad for your oral health for a number of reasons, one of which is enamel loss.Â
- Acid reflux. Chronic acid reflux can quickly lead to tooth enamel loss as it exposes your teeth to stomach acid, which is extremely damaging to enamel.Â
- Dry mouth. Saliva is useful in preventing tooth decay by getting rid of excess bacteria and food residue in your mouth. Too little saliva has the opposite affect and may allow bacteria to linger and erode tooth enamel. Â
- Overconsumption of alcohol. Overconsuming alcohol can have many negative effects on your health. On top of liver damage and increasing your risks for certain types of cancer, overconsumption of alcohol may also affect your tooth enamel by lowering the amount of saliva that your mouth is naturally producing — affecting tooth enamel in the same way as listed above.Â
- Drinking soft drinks. The citric and phosphoric acids that are present in soft drinks can negatively affect and erode tooth enamel.
Signs of Enamel Erosion
Enamel erosion may present signs in a number of different ways. Some of the main telltale signs of tooth enamel erosion are:
- Sensitivity. If you notice that specific foods or food/beverage temperatures are causing you a twinge of pain or discomfort, this is a sign that your enamel may have been eroded.Â
- Discoloration. Tooth yellowing and discoloration is often a sign of enamel erosion which allows the dentin to be exposed (making teeth appear more yellow).Â
- Cracks or chips. If you have noticed that your teeth are rough or jagged around the edges, this is a sign of enamel erosion.Â
- Painfully sensitive teeth. If you are experiencing severe pain due to food or beverage temperature or when you eat sweet foods, this is a sign that you are at a much more advanced stage of tooth enamel erosion.Â
Â
Tips on How to Keep Your Tooth Enamel Strong
Can tooth enamel be repaired? Are there methods for how to restore tooth enamel?Â
There are a number of ways that you can protect against enamel loss and ensure that your teeth stay strong and healthy.Â
Here are 9 of the best ways to ensure that your enamel stays strong:Â
- Avoid sugary foods and beverages.
- Eat calcium-rich foods that help to protect enamel (such as dairy products).Â
- Avoid over-brushing or using a hard-bristle toothbrush — which can wear down on enamel. When brushing be sure to use a soft head toothbrush.
- Use fluoride toothpaste as it serves to fight cavities and strengthen enamel.Â
- Seek treatment for chronic heartburn and eating disorders as these both deal with stomach acid which is especially harmful for your enamel.
- Watch out for signs of dry mouth, as this commonly contributes to enamel loss.Â
- Wear a mouth guard at night if you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding).Â
- Go to the dentist regularly to ensure that your teeth are healthy (most adults should be visiting the dentist every six months).Â
- Avoid overly acidic foods or beverages (wine, lemon or apple cider vinegar drinks, etc.). If you do decide to indulge in these foods/drinks, try sipping water after to help wash away some of the harsh acid that could otherwise sit on the teeth.
Tooth Enamel Repair
Unfortunately, once enamel is lost or damaged, the body cannot naturally restore it. Rather than repairing the damage that is done, it’s essential to avoid enamel loss in the first place.Â
If however, you find yourself face to face with what to do after you’ve suffered enamel loss, your dental options include the following:Â
- Dental veneers
- Remineralization
- Sealants
- Dental onlaysÂ
If you have suffered tooth enamel loss and are in need of one of the above services, get in touch with The Chicago Dental Studio to schedule an appointment at our boutique dental studio.
Rebuild Tooth Enamel & Restore Your Smile at The Chicago Dental Studio Today
Whether you want a consultation about tooth enamel loss and repair or other dental issues, get in touch with The Chicago Dental Studio today to schedule an appointment at our upscale dental studio.Â
Here at The Chicago Dental Studio, we provide our patients with world-class dental services that help patients feel pampered and ensure they are getting the highest quality care possible. Our team of dental professionals believe in the transformative power of quality dentistry and we have made it our mission to provide Chicago residents with the highest quality dental care possible.Â
Get in touch with The Chicago Dental Studio today to learn more about the services we offer or to schedule your appointment at our high-end dental studio. We look forward to assisting you on your dental journey. Check our CDS Subscriptions!