Wax protects the paint on cars, raincoats protect us from dreary days, and tooth enamel – that elusive material we hear so much about at dental visits, plays a vital role in protecting our teeth from decay. The hardest and most mineralized substance of the body, enamel is resilient; however, it isn’t impervious to damage. Why do dentists stress the importance of preserving it? Unlike our bones and tissue which regenerate over time, enamel isn’t a living “thing”; this means that once it has eroded, it’s gone for good.
Practicing proper and consistent dental hygiene is a great way to prevent the decay of enamel. Be sure to brush correctly; shoot to brush twice a day for at least two minutes and apply gentle pressure; brushing too hard may cause damage to tooth structure over time. Plus, plaque is quite soft and doesn’t require extreme force for removal. You should select a soft bristle brush, so that you can reach those tricky places right along the gum line. You’ll also want to keep your eyes peeled for that American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval. Don’t become too attached to your brush; it’s best to replace it every 3 to 4 months, as it starts to lose its plaque-fighting power around that time.
When we don’t brush and floss consistently or in the right way, bacteria secretes sticky molecules that bind to teeth as plaque. Demineralization occurs as these molecules consume sugar and starch and convert them to acid. This acid slowly breaks down the outer layer of our teeth leaving them prone to sensitivity, and damage from eating certain foods.
Diet also plays an important function in the remineralization of teeth and attacking the root cause of plaque in the first place. Sometimes protecting enamel is about avoiding certain foods. Tooth bacteria thrives when we eat sugar, so it’s best to limit sugar-laden drinks and snacks. Additionally, soda pop contains phosphoric and citric acids which are detrimental to dental health. Skip the soda machine and opt for a simple glass of water instead.
Choose ingredients that fight demineralization. Today’s modern-day diet which consists of excessive amounts of white grain and sugary foods is playing a part in the higher incidences of tooth decay. According to Mouthhealthy.org, enamel decay tends to be worse in those with poor diets. The American Dental Association recommends eating a balanced diet that includes whole grains, lean protein, low-fat dairy, and fruits and veggies.
Dairy lovers rejoice! According to Pamela L. Quinones, former president of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, milk, cheese, and other natural dairy products are rich in calcium, which helps to protect and strengthen enamel. Cheese also promotes saliva production, which can help balance the mouth’s pH level and prevent acid production.
Partner up with the right paste. Toothpaste that contains fluoride will strengthen and protect your teeth from enamel demineralization. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Dentistry found that it was beneficial as both a preventive measure and restorative treatment. Subbing your current toothpaste for a brand such as Sensodyne® Pronamel or Colgate enamel health is an easy switch that will reap rewards.
When it comes to dental health, it’s important to address the big picture. Disorders such as GERD (or acid reflux) can lead to disintegration of enamel as reflux from acid makes its way from the stomach back up to the mouth. Many GERD sufferers also experience dry mouth – which is known to increase the amount of mouth bacteria and decay. If you suffer from persistent heartburn or acid reflux, it pays to visit a Gastroenterologist who will examine your diet and pinpoint which foods may be causing this issue. Coffee, wine, spicy foods, and items with added sugar are all common culprits.
Seeking the advice of a reputable dentist, and scheduling regular cleanings every 4 or 6 months, are some of the best ways to keep enamel in tip-top shape. The gentle and experienced staff at Dedicated Dental will work with you to establish a dental plan that best suits your needs. In addition to pain-free cleanings and regular dentistry, they offer many cosmetic services including full mouth reconstruction. For more information, call 702-566-5509.
