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://beniciadentist.com or call Southampton Dental Care at (707) 887-5075 for an appointment in our Benicia dental office.
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