It isn’t pleasant to think about – but throughout our lives, our teeth are constantly in danger. Harmful bacteria that feed on food particles on our mouths wear away at the surface of the teeth and ultimately lead to tooth decay.
Additionally, when we eat any acidic foods, we also put our teeth at risk of dental erosion. Any time we eat acidic foods, the tooth enamel temporarily softens and loses some of its important minerals. Our saliva naturally restores the pH balance of the mouth within a few hours – but until then, the enamel is at risk of permanent damage.
What is enamel?
Tooth enamel is the hard, outer surface layer of your teeth. Its primary function is to protect your teeth against decay. Tooth enamel is considered the hardest mineral substance in the body – and it is even stronger than bone!
Why enamel is important
Enamel is important because it protects your teeth from decay and damage. It is essential to keep your enamel healthy and strong in order to protect your teeth.
Ways to prevent enamel loss
You can prevent dental erosion by adjusting your diet. Avoid acidic foods. Acid attacks can also be reduced by finishing a meal with cheese or milk – two items that help restore the pH balance more quickly. Sugar-free gums can also help because it helps naturally stimulate saliva production after eating.
You can also prevent enamel loss by waiting at least an hour after a meal to brush your teeth, which may be counter-intuitive to what you might have been taught as a child.
Simple answer: can you repair enamel?
Once the tooth enamel is damaged – it can’t be brought back. However, there are some steps you can take to strengthen the enamel that remains. This is done by improving its mineral content. Toothpaste and mouthwashes contribute to this remineralization process, which is one reason why brushing your teeth regularly is so important.
Dr. Emma Wu: Providing expert dental recommendations for our patients
To keep your teeth in optimal condition, visit a dentist regularly. Although it can seem intimidating to go to the dentist, especially if you haven’t been in a long time, it is critical to keeping your teeth and enamel healthy. If you are from Boston’s North Shore, visit Dr. Emma Wu today! We are dedicated to improving patient care and the overall dental experience.