What Are The Things That Affect Our Teeth' Enamel?

What Are The Things That Affect Our Teeth' Enamel?

July 1, 2023

A variety of factors can have an impact on the health and integrity of our tooth enamel. Poor oral hygiene practices, such as insufficient brushing and flossing, can lead to plaque and bacteria buildup, which produces acid that erodes the enamel. Acidic foods and beverages, like citrus fruits, sodas, and sports drinks, can also erode enamel over time. Tooth grinding (bruxism) can wear down and erode enamel. Antihistamines and aspirin, for example, may contribute to enamel damage. Furthermore, conditions such as dry mouth, acid reflux, and eating disorders can increase the likelihood of enamel erosion. Maintaining strong enamel requires regular dental care and eating a tooth-friendly diet.

  1. Dietary Factors

Our dietary habits are one of the most important factors influencing tooth enamel. Certain foods and beverages can cause enamel damage, either directly or indirectly. For example, acidic foods with high acidic content, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and pickles, can erode enamel over time. Furthermore, carbonated beverages and fruit juices frequently contain high levels of sugar and acid, contributing to enamel erosion.

  1. Poor Oral Hygiene

Poor oral hygiene practices can significantly impact tooth enamel health. Plaque accumulates on teeth due to improper oral hygiene, such as irregular brushing and improper brushing techniques. In addition, plaque contains harmful bacteria that produce acids that, over time, can erode enamel.

Establishing a consistent oral hygiene routine is critical to maintaining healthy enamel. Brushing your teeth daily with fluoride toothpaste and gentle circular motions can effectively remove plaque and protect enamel. Furthermore, flossing daily and using mouthwash can help remove plaque and bacteria from hard-to-reach areas, thereby preserving enamel. You can also ask your dentist at Premium Dental in Charlotte for more guidelines.

  1. Acid Reflux and Vomiting

People with frequent acid reflux or conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are at risk of enamel erosion. Acid reflux is whenstomach acid flows back into your mouth, exposing tooth enamel to acidic content. Similarly, people with bulimia or other conditions that cause frequent vomiting to expose their teeth to stomach acid, which causes enamel erosion.

To prevent enamel erosion in these situations, seek medical attention for acid reflux or other underlying conditions. In addition, dentists may advise patients to use fluoride mouth rinses, chew sugar-free gum, or use enamel-strengthening toothpaste to reduce the effects of acid exposure on tooth enamel.

  1. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Bruxism, or the habit of grinding or clenching one’s teeth, can cause enamel wear and thinning. Excessive force in teeth grinding gradually erodes enamel, making teeth more prone to decay and sensitivity. In addition, bruxism is frequently linked to stress, anxiety, or an abnormal bite.

The underlying causes must be identified and addressed to protect tooth enamel from bruxism-related damage. Your dentist at Charlotte Dentistrymay advise patients to wear a custom mouthguard or splint while sleeping to prevent tooth-to-tooth contact and enamel wear. Stress-relieving techniques such as exercise, meditation, and relaxation exercises can also help to relieve bruxism and preserve enamel.

  1. Medications and Medical Conditions:

Some medications and medical conditions can damage tooth enamel. When chewed or held in the mouth for an extended period, medications containing high levels of acids, such as aspirin and vitamin C tablets, can erode enamel.

How To Take Care of Your Enamel

Taking care of your enamel is essential for good dental health. Here are some suggestions  recommended by your dentist in Charlotte, NC, for protecting and caring for your tooth enamel:

  • Maintain Good Oral Hygiene:

Brush your teeth daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste in circular motions.

Floss daily: Remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and also along the gumline to help prevent enamel erosion.

Use mouthwash: It is recommended at your dental clinic near you that you should to rinse using an antimicrobial mouthwash to freshen your breath and kill bacteria. For added enamel protection, look for fluoride-containing mouthwashes.

  • Selecting a Toothbrush and Toothpaste:

Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles: Enamel abrasion can be caused by hard-bristle brushes. Soft bristles clean teeth effectively without damaging the enamel.

Choose fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride strengthens enamel and protects teeth from decay

  • Keep an eye on your diet:

Reduce your intake of acidic and sugary foods: Acidic and sugary foods can erode your enamel over time. Reduce your intake of citrus fruits, sodas, fruit juices, and candies. If you do eat them, make sure to rinse your mouth with water afterward.

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