How To Strengthen Tooth Enamel and Improve the Appearance of Your Teeth

Whenever you consume acidic foods of any kind, the tooth enamel on your teeth experiences a temporary softening and loses some of the essential minerals it contains. Saliva has the ability to naturally restore the mouth’s pH equilibrium in a matter of a few hours. However, the enamel is particularly susceptible to suffering long-term damage in the meantime.

What Does Tooth Enamel Loss Look Like?

As your dentist in Beaumont, TX can explain, dents can form on the surface of the tooth if enamel erosion continues unchecked for a long enough period of time. These pits or indentations on the tooth surface, which dentists refer to as cupping, frequently take place as a result of the enamel and dentin being worn away by acids produced in the mouth.

The yellowish dentin layer is more apparent when the tooth’s enamel has worn away significantly. This is distinct from the yellow stains that can develop on teeth as a result of smoking and consuming particular foods and drinks. The teeth may appear more transparent, dull, and lose their natural shine in addition to appearing more yellow.

The edges of the teeth no longer remain smooth as enamel starts to erode. They may appear rounded and rough. If the issue is not quickly fixed, it may result in teeth that are chipped or cracked.

Can Tooth Enamel Be Restored?

Tooth enamel is a protective barrier against bacteria and other things that endanger teeth. There are websites and products for sale online that promise to restore enamel. Unfortunately, the loss of tooth enamel is permanent. 

Tooth enamel can’t be replaced or restored. The reason is that tooth enamel is not living tissue, so there’s no way it can “grow” back. However, weakened tooth enamel can be strengthened by adding mineral content.

How Can Tooth Enamel Be Strengthened?

The first step in strengthening existing tooth enamel is to refrain from eating acidic foods that eat away at enamel. This includes alcoholic beverages, vinegar-y foods, tomatoes and more.

Next, ensure that you are using fluoride, in your water, toothpaste and mouthwash. Fluoride can help to remineralize tooth enamel, adding a certain level of protection.

Next, consider restorative treatments such as tooth bonding and dental veneers. These treatments, while cosmetic, add strength to weakened teeth.

Contact your dentist in Beaumont, TX to learn more about improving the strength and appearance of your teeth.