The hardest substance in your body is tooth enamel. Found on the outer surface of your teeth, enamel should last for your whole life. But just because it’s durable doesn’t mean you don’t have to work to take care of it.
Here are some helpful tips for keeping enamel healthy.
1. Pick the right foods for enamel health. It’s no secret that soft drinks damage your teeth, and don’t think that diet sodas are harmless – the artificial sweeteners can also erode enamel over time. There are also other culinary culprits that can do a lot of harm. Sticky, chewy candies should be avoided. Chewing ice is a no-no. And don’t use your teeth as tools. Take a minute to grab some scissors before you rip open that package with your incisors.
On the flip side, foods with calcium can neutralize the acid in your mouth and protect your enamel. So, enjoy your dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt!
2. Avoid vigorous brushing and use a soft brush. Also, it’s best to brush about an hour after eating, because foods, especially acidic ones, can soften the enamel, thus making it more prone to degeneration from brushing. If your teeth are discolored or yellowish, you may feel you need to brush harder. Instead, examine teeth whitening and communicate with your dentist.
3. Keep stomach acids in check. If you have a problem with severe heartburn, stomach acid could be traveling up your esophagus and into your mouth. This acid can erode enamel, so it is vital to communicate with your Kennesaw doctor about treatment.
4. Talk to your dentist about dry mouth and tooth grinding. Lack of saliva is a major problem for tooth enamel, and it’s no surprise that teeth grinding can also wear it down. Make sure your dentist is aware if you see either of these issues.
We want our patients to have the best oral health possible, and enamel health is a key component. I also love helping my patients achieve the dazzling smile they want with cosmetic dentistry procedures such as dental bonding, veneers, invisible braces, tooth-colored fillings, and dental implants.
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/healthy-teeth-2/tooth-enamel-damage, accessed on September 18, 2013
Contact us:
770-419-2535
Location (Click to open Maps):
1415 Wooten Lake Rd NW Ste 300
Kennesaw, Georgia
30144
