Your tooth enamel, which covers and protects your teeth, is one of your body’s first lines of defense. It is the hardest and most highly mineralized substance in your body. It helps prevent tooth decay and protect the sensitive inner layers of your teeth, the dentin and pulp. Since enamel plays a crucial role in your oral health, you may be wondering what to do if your tooth enamel is damaged. Read on to find out!
How Does Tooth Enamel Get Damaged?
Even though enamel is the hardest surface in your body, it can be damaged. Often, the damage comes in the form of cavities and decay. When the bacteria in your mouth break down sugar, simple carbohydrates, and starches, they leave behind a harmful acid that dissolves your tooth enamel, which over time, can lead to the development of cavities. You can also damage your enamel by causing it to crack or chip. Try to avoid chewing on things that will harm your enamel, such as hard candy and ice.
How Can I Protect My Enamel?
A good oral hygiene routine will help keep your enamel healthy and strong. Brush your teeth twice daily, floss every day, and visit our office every six months to care for the health of your teeth. When brushing, use only a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle circles because bristles that are too hard and vigorous brushing will erode your enamel.
How Can I Repair Tooth Enamel?
Your tooth enamel does not contain any living cells, so you can’t regrow enamel if it gets damaged. However, fluoride can help. Through a process called remineralization, fluoride deposits minerals like calcium and magnesium that help build up and strengthen your enamel. If Dr. Brace notices early signs of wear on your enamel, she often recommends that patients use a fluoride mouthwash and fluoride toothpaste to prevent further decay.
Ask Us All Your Oral Care Questions!
We hope this information gives you a sense of how important it is to care for your tooth enamel. To ask our team any other questions about enamel or to schedule your next visit, contact our office today!