Weakened enamel can compromise your oral health without any warning signs. It is actually possible to have shiny, white teeth with weak enamel. A little bump to your mouth or a bite of some hard food and you can end up with a chipped, cracked, or broken tooth. You are also more likely to develop cavities when your enamel weakens.
Having strong teeth is essential for good long-term oral health. Regardless of the current condition of your enamel, there are things you can do that will help you strengthen your teeth. Here is a look at some of them.
Fermentable carbs such as those in sugary drinks, candy, cereals, cookies and other sweet goodies are broken down by bacteria in your mouth, creating acids that eat away at your enamel. This process is known as demineralization, which involves the acids breaking down minerals that form within your enamel.
Stay away from sugary food items especially if you do not have a habit of brushing after every meal. The acids created by these sugars stick to your teeth even after you finish eating.
Since acids in your mouth demineralize your teeth, it only makes sense to add back these minerals when you can. Drinking fluoridated water is an easy way to keep your teeth supplied with lots of fluoride. You can also talk to your dentist about topical fluorides.
At the very least, brush your teeth twice a day. This helps to remove food particles that can be broken down by bacteria in your mouth into acids that can damage your enamel. For even stronger teeth, brush your teeth after every meal.
Brushing properly is just as important as brushing often. Resist the urge to use elbow grease when you brush and instead use gentle circular motions. Brushing forcefully can end up damaging your enamel.Be sure to use a toothbrush that has soft bristles.
Cleaning your tongue should also be part of your oral care routine. Make sure you go over it a few times every time your brush.
Food is another good way to get much-needed minerals to your teeth. Some foods like cheese have even been found to prevent the demineralization of your teeth by acids. Food items that are generally good for your teeth include:
Vegetables
Fruits
Whole grains
Dairy products
Lean proteins
As a general rule, foods that promote saliva secretion are good for your enamel.
During a professional cleaning, your dentist will scrape off all the tartar on your teeth. Tartar is the hardened film on your teeth, harboring the bacteria that convert the carbohydrates in foods into sugars. After the procedure, your dentist will apply a fluoride treatment that will keep your teeth protected for months.
Request a dental appointment here: https://sonorandesertdentistry.com/ or call Sonoran Desert Dentistry at (480) 439-0117 for an appointment in our Scottsdale dental office.
Practicing good oral hygiene basics is the best line of defense against cavities, abscesses and other problems that can plague a person’s mouth. A visit to the dentist can show someone where changes need to be made and help direct improvements in cleaning habits. The following information can more fully explain what needs to happen…
Oral hygiene is important to everyone, no matter how old you are. Even though you have had your teeth for years, you still might not know all the techniques that will keep your smile healthy for years to come. One important tool of the trade is your toothbrush. Learn how to properly store it and…
When your practice good oral health, your teeth and gums are able to function without issue. Of course, your oral health does not only affect your mouth. Oral health is directly linked to overall health and even heart health. Taking care of your mouth is not only important for proper eating but also to keep…
Flossing before brushing will help keep the space between teeth clean and prevent plaque buildup.We will go over oral hygiene basics during a cleaning and examination to ensure that the patient knows how to keep proper hygiene at home. Dental care at home is crucial for healthy and clean teeth.Oral Hygiene BasicsAt Sonoran Desert Dentistry…
Sedation dentistry is another name for sleep dentistry. It helps keep you calm during dental procedures. Sedation dentistry can relax you as your dentist works on your gums and teeth. If you want to know more about sleep dentistry, here are some FAQs and the answers for each.Twilight sedation and conscious sedation are other terms…
If you are looking to replace one or more missing teeth, there are several tooth replacement options available. It is always recommended to replace missing teeth for the sake of your dental health and looks. Your teeth are designed to work together to help you speak and chew. When teeth are missing, it is hard…