How to Strengthen Tooth Enamel

If you don’t already know what tooth enamel is, it’s that shiny, white hard protective coating over your teeth. It also acts as the first line of defense against tooth decay. However, certain things, such as poor dental hygiene, demineralization, and unhealthy lifestyle habits can cause a weakening of the structure. Learning more about teeth enamel and how to strengthen it can help improve your oral health.

More About Teeth Enamel

The enamel that covers your teeth is stronger and more resilient than bone, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). Its surface is 96 percent mineral which makes it durable and resistant to damage. The protective layer is made up mostly of a mineral called hydroxyapatite, but it also has calcium, magnesium, fluoride, sodium, phosphate, and carbonate. 

What Causes Weakened Teeth Enamel?

The natural process of demineralization, or loss of minerals, is a primary reason for damage to and weakening of the enamel. Telltale signs of demineralization include white spots on your teeth, teeth that are rough around the edges, and increased tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods. The loss of minerals occurs due to an acidic environment in your mouth. This encourages plaque bacteria to grow and gradually dissolve the protective white (or yellowish) covering. Your risk of tooth decay also increases as a result.

Here are some main factors that lead to faster demineralization, tooth enamel damage, and ultimately cavities:

• Dry mouth (reduces remineralization through saliva)
• Frequently consuming sugary or acidic foods and beverages
• Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing too hard
• Overbrushing
• Teeth grinding
• Chronic health conditions such as acid reflux or bulimia
• Excessive alcohol drinking
• Smoking or using tobacco products
• Tooth injury or trauma
• Eating hard foods or biting hard objects such as ice

How to Strengthen Tooth Enamel in 6 Easy Ways

Because the enamel does not regenerate the way the cells in your bones do, you cannot get it back once it’s lost. However, remineralization helps to increase protection. Saliva plays an important role in this process since it helps create a less acidic environment in your mouth. You can also protect your teeth enamel and prevent further erosion or damage by taking these steps:

Practice good oral hygiene
A regular oral care routine consisting of brushing twice and flossing once every day goes a long way in reducing enamel loss. The ADA recommends brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing with string floss or an interdental brush. Brushing regularly helps remove bacteria from your teeth that lead to demineralization and cavities. You can also rinse with fluoride or antiseptic mouthwash for extra protection.

Avoid foods that promote acid and bacteria in the mouth
Sugary foods and drinks are prime culprits of enamel erosion and damage. They include foods such as chewy candies, citrus, soft drinks, wines, and fruit juices. Limiting them will help prevent cavity-causing bacteria from feeding on sugar in your mouth and converting it into acid. If you do end up consuming any of these problem foods or drinks, you can still protect your teeth by rinsing your mouth with water afterward.

Brush your teeth if possible. Just remember to wait for 45 minutes to an hour after eating sweets or citrus fruits before you brush. Foods high in acid may soften the enamel and make it more prone to damage from brushing.

Eat foods that promote saliva production
Saliva washes food particles and bacteria off your teeth, so it’s important to keep it flowing, particularly if you experience chronic dry mouth. Foods that increase saliva production and reduce bacteria in the mouth include milk, yogurt, cheese, black and green teas, nuts, and lean proteins. Vegetables and fruits include spinach, carrots, celery, and apples. Dairy products are high in calcium and phosphate and are good for replenishing the minerals in your teeth. Studies also suggest that chewing sugar-free gum is another way to keep saliva flowing in your mouth.

Get treatment for medical conditions
Talk to your doctor about treatment for conditions that threaten teeth enamel. They include conditions such as heartburn and acid reflux, the eating disorder bulimia, and dry mouth. If you have dry mouth, there will be little saliva to wash away acid and bacteria on your teeth that damage the enamel. Drinking plenty of water daily is a natural way to fight dry mouth. Your doctor may also recommend limiting caffeine intake, avoiding mouthwashes that contain alcohol, adjusting your diet, or quitting smoking as treatments for dry mouth.

Get your routine dental checkup
According to the ADA, you should visit your dentist at least every six months for a dental cleaning and a general check up. This allows your dentist to spot and treat oral problems early. Your dental professional will examine your mouth and teeth and look for issues such as tooth decay, tooth grinding, chipped tooth, and signs of enamel loss. Your dentist may set up a treatment plan that may include using fluoridated products or performing fluoride treatments.

If you are located in Southeast Michigan and you need to make an appointment, please contact your nearest Fortson Dentistry location.