The most visible part of a tooth is dental enamel. It’s the outside that makes your smile sparkle. It can become weaker, damaged, or worn out over time.
Enamel defects can cause damage to the appearance and health of your smile. There are some ways to repair enamel problems and strengthen teeth, as well as give them a longer life. If you are in Canada, you may want to know about the best dentists in London Ontario for your dental care needs.
What is dental enamel?
The enamel, which is the outermost portion of the tooth, is a thin, undeveloped covering made of over 90% of a very hard substance. It can only be cut with a diamond.
Tooth enamel is a crucial part of your smile. It is translucent and highly minerals. Also, it gives color to teeth by covering the crown like a cap. It also plays an important role because it protects the inner tooth from bacteria and wears. Do you know how much does braces cost in Ontario?
What are the defects in enamel?
Dental enamel, although it is the most difficult substance in our bodies, is also the most fragile. It is more susceptible to acid substances than other parts of the teeth and can be demineralized. It can also be severely damaged by the high pressure caused by bruxism or grinding.
As a result, enamel defects can develop over time that not only affect the aesthetics of the smile but also compromise the health of your mouth. The following are the main issues that can impact dental enamel:
- Presence of yellow spots due to fluorosis or trauma or intake of the same enamel
- Yellow and brown spots are caused by mineralization errors
- Wear/Erosion (until teeth are transparent at the edges)
- Bruxism or aggressive oral hygiene products can cause abrasion
- Hypoplasia
We will now list the most common causes of enamel weakness. These must be listed in addition to any genetic or hereditary reasons.
- Consumption of high-acidic foods (such as citrus fruits)
- Consumption of sugar-rich and carbonated drinks frequently
- Regular consumption of tea or coffee
- Smoke
- Gastroesophageal reflux problems
- Poor oral hygiene.
Tips and remedies for strengthening enamel and teeth
Good practices for strengthening tooth enamel and taking care can be summarized into three broad categories: healthy eating and cleaning.
Some foods can damage enamel. However, some foods make it stronger. These are mainly food that contains many minerals due to the enamel’s high mineralization.
Dairy products, dark leafy vegetables, and protein foods are some examples. Hydration is another important aspect to remember. Drinking lots of water helps to salivate, which is beneficial for your dental health.
An alternative method to strengthen enamel is dental. The number one enemy of the smile is bacteria. Mineralization can also be achieved by using fluoride and special toothpaste.
The special fluoride-based supplement is the last option. However, it is important to follow the doctor’s instructions and prescribe the correct doses, as excess fluoride can be as dangerous as a deficiency.