Tooth Enamel Loss

Tooth Enamel Loss

Tooth enamel serves as the first line of defence against tooth damage and decay. Wondering how to protect yourself against tooth enamel loss? Continue reading for some tips.

What is Tooth Enamel?

Tooth enamel is the protective outer layer of the tooth. It is known as the hardest substance in the human body – in fact, it is even stronger than bone!

Tooth enamel protects the delicate inner layers of dentin and pulp and provides protection against decay and sensitivity to hot and cold.

Causes of Tooth Enamel Loss

While tooth enamel is exceptionally strong, long-term exposure to harmful acids and bacterias place the enamel at risk for erosion. In turn, this places the tooth at an increased risk of decay (cavities).

Causes of tooth enamel loss include:

  • Hard and sticky candies
  • Soft drinks
  • Coffee/Tea
  • Dry mouth (Xerostomia)
  • Acid reflux disease
  • Teeth grinding (Bruxism)
  • Frequent vomiting caused by bulimia or alcoholism

Excessive plaque or tartar buildup

How to Prevent Tooth Enamel Loss

The best way to prevent tooth enamel loss is to practice proper oral hygiene – this helps ensure that the enamel is as strong and durable as possible.

To practice proper oral hygiene, it is important to ensure that you are brushing and flossing thoroughly at least twice daily. It is highly recommended to brush and floss after each meal because this is an excellent way of ensuring that harmful bacterias, acids, or starches are not able to sit on the enamel and cause erosion.

It is also important to keep up with your regularly-scheduled check-up and cleaning appointments. During these visits, the health of your teeth will be examined and all signs of plaque or tartar will be removed. 

Your dentist or dental hygienist may also recommend that you have a fluoride treatment done. Fluoride is a naturally-occurring element that helps strengthen the enamel. During this treatment, a fluoride substance is applied directly to the teeth and allowed to sit for a certain amount of time. This can be very beneficial for protecting the teeth.

Your diet also plays a massive role in the health of your tooth enamel. Following a “tooth-friendly” diet is another great way to prevent tooth enamel loss. Foods and beverages that are good for your teeth include:

  • Milk, cheese, and yogurt: Calcium-rich and excellent for stimulating saliva production
  • Nuts: Rich in calcium and assist with stimulating saliva production
  • Fruits and vegetables: Clean the teeth naturally while eating and filled with vitamins
  • Sugar-free gum: Excellent for saliva production without the risk of harmful sugars
  • Fluoridated Water: Fluoride is excellent for strengthening and re-mineralizing tooth enamel.

6ix Eglinton Dental: Best Dentist in Yonge and Eglinton

With the information you have learned here, you will have a more solid understanding of how to prevent tooth enamel loss.

If you are in the Toronto area and searching for the best dentist near you, search no longer! 6ix Eglinton Dental is here to provide the dental care you need.

Dr. Sobhi has been practising dentistry for over 14 years. She and her team of experienced dental professionals are here to help you achieve your healthiest and most beautiful smile.

6ix Eglinton Dental proudly provides comprehensive dental care in Yonge and Eglinton. Our beautiful and modern office has the latest in dental technology which assists us in providing our patients with the best care possible.

For more information about how to prevent tooth enamel loss or to schedule an appointment in our office, schedule an appointment online or give us a call at (416) 220-0404.