Your tooth enamel is the hardest substance in your body and cannot be restored. It is a dense mineral that surrounds and protects your teeth. It can be weakened by foods, drinks, or brushing. Since enamel is a mineral, it does not grow back. When it has been cracked or chipped the loss becomes permanent. Because it can’t be replaced, here are some ways you can prevent tooth enamel erosion.
Cut Down on Sugary Drinks – Sugar and bacteria in your mouth combine to form the acid that attacks your teeth every time you swallow. Try to replace soda or fruit juices with water at least once or twice a day.
Cut Back on Sugary and Starchy Snacks – Snacks with lots of sugar or starch can lead to greater acid production. Try to decrease the number of snacks you eat daily.
Avoid Swishing Drinks – Swirling liquid in your mouth exposes more teeth to the acid that causes enamel erosion. Use a straw so the liquid touches as few teeth as possible before being swallowed.
Rinse Your Mouth After Eating – Brushing your teeth too soon after eating acidic food can worsen the damage, because you’re spreading the acid around your mouth. Instead, gently wash out your mouth with water or mouthwash after eating. Wait 30-60 minutes after eating to brush your teeth.
Chew Sugarless Gum – Sugar-free gum can help clear away acid remaining in your mouth after a meal. Choose a gum with xylitol, which has been shown to stop the growth of cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth.
Increase Your Dairy Intake – Dairy products have calcium which builds strong teeth. Their stickiness helps to form a film over your teeth that helps to protect enamel against acid.
Drink Tea – Tea has a high PH level relative to most other drinks, and it can neutralize acid in your mouth produced by other food and drinks.
Use Toothpaste and Mouthwash with Fluoride – Choose toothpaste and mouthwash that list fluoride among the ingredients because it helps to strengthen enamel, offering further protection against acid or anything else that can wear away that protective coating
Get Regular Dental Checkups – Schedule regular dental checkups and biannual cleanings to keep your teeth as healthy as possible. You can also use those appointments to consult with your dentist about other ways to protect your tooth enamel and strategize your tooth erosion treatment.
