As strong as Superman is, he’s still vulnerable when Kryptonite is near. Wonder Woman is one tough cookie, but her weapons can be used against her. Tooth enamel is the strongest substance in the human body, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t vulnerable.
Your teeth are constantly facing substances capable of destroying them, such as the sugar and acids found in the food you eat. You may not notice enamel wear occurring in your mouth because it can happen so slowly, but realizing your teeth are vulnerable to decay can be the first step to spur you to do something about it.
Read on to learn more about enamel loss, what happens if you do not try to prevent it, and how you can preserve the enamel you have.
How Can Your Teeth Lose Their Enamel?
Enamel is the hard outer layer of the tooth that protects the softer, more sensitive inner layer called dentin. If enamel is exposed to destructive bacteria from sugars and starches or to acids from citrus fruits and coffee, it begins to break down.
Enamel can also be lost due to tooth damage or injury. Chipped or cracked teeth can expose the dentin, making it directly vulnerable to decay. Teeth clenching and grinding are culprits that wear down tooth enamel, so asking your dentist about a mouthguard if you are a nighttime grinder is very important. Once enamel is lost, your body doesn’t replace it, so the key is to take care of what you have.
What If You Suffer from Major Enamel Loss?
Without enamel, the sensitive part of your teeth is exposed to destructive substances, much more susceptible to breakages, and can become extremely painful. Your teeth can deteriorate very quickly, resulting in discomfort, tooth loss, and likely gum disease.
For patients with advanced enamel loss, dental crowns can be installed to prevent further decay from the teeth and gums. Not only are a person’s teeth more likely to chip or crack with enamel loss, they are prone to experience major sensitivity when consuming hot or cold foods.
While you cannot replace lost enamel, at least weakened enamel can be salvaged through a process called remineralization to make it strong again. Products like fluoride toothpaste and high-calcium foods are great aids for remineralization. If you are trying to cope with your enamel loss, talking to your dentist about the best solution for you is a great idea.
How Can You Prevent Enamel Loss to Protect Your Smile?
The easiest and most effective way to take a preventive approach for this issue is to brush with a fluoride toothpaste and floss twice a day. Try to purchase a mouthwash that mentions “protects enamel” on the label.
And, of course, a visit to your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning is key to ensure your mouth gets protection in those hard-to-reach areas where destructive bacteria can thrive.
The thought of your enamel eroding away can be frightful, but if you acknowledge the threat now and exercise smart dental hygiene habits, this is one horror story you don’t have to live through!
About the Practice
Zahner Dental has proudly brought our unique blend of old-fashioned customer service and state-of-the-art dentistry to the Ellington community for nearly 40 years. Dr. Warren Zahner and his two sons, Dr. Jonathan Zahner and Dr. Shawn Zahner, are invested in this community as much as they are in Zahner Dental. With a kind staff and a warm office space, we hope to welcome you soon down the path to excellent oral health. Whether you have a serious issue like enamel loss or you simply need a professional cleaning, visit our website or call (860) 870-9031.