Tooth enamel is made up of mineral crystals that are bonded together.

There are a few things you can do to help restore your tooth enamel such as avoiding acidic foods and drinks as much as possible. Acidic beverages like soft drinks, energy drinks, and even fruit juice can wear away at your enamel. If you do consume acidic beverages, drink plenty of water afterwards and regularly brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush. A mouthwash with fluoride can help strengthen tooth enamel.

What is tooth enamel

Tooth enamel is made up of mineral crystals that are bonded together. Enamel protects your teeth from everyday wear. It also helps to insulate your teeth from changes in temperature. Over time, tooth enamel can become worn down by acidic beverages, sugary snacks and even brushing too hard. You can help protect your tooth enamel by avoiding acidic foods and drinks, brushing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and using a fluoride-containing mouthwash. Regular dental checkups are also important in order to detect any early signs of enamel loss.

What causes tooth enamel erosion?

Acid reflux is a common cause. Another common cause of enamel erosion is consuming acidic beverages. Grinding your teeth also puts extra pressure on the enamel and can lead to erosion over time.

How to prevent tooth enamel erosion

Tooth enamel is the hardest mineralised tissue in the body, but it can still be damaged by acids. When tooth enamel is exposed to acid, it begins to break down, which can lead to tooth sensitivity, yellowing of the teeth and eventually tooth cavities.

There are several things you can do to prevent tooth enamel erosion such as avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks, rinsing your mouth with water after eating or drinking, chewing sugarless gum to increase saliva flow and visiting your dentist regularly.

What is tooth enamel made of?

Tooth enamel is made up of hydroxyapatite, a calcium phosphate compound. Hydroxyapatite is also found in bone tissue. The thickness of enamel varies depending on where it is located on the tooth. For example, the enamel on molars is thicker than the enamel on incisors Enamel can be damaged by acids.

How does a dentist fix tooth enamel problems?

If you have tooth enamel erosion, there are a few things a dentist may do first.

Fluoride treatments

Fluoride can help to strengthen tooth enamel.

Bonding

In this procedure, your dentist will apply resin bonds to the tooth which helps to protect it from further damage.

Crowns

Dental crowns can help to restore a damaged tooth.

Does losing tooth enamel cause cavities?

Losing tooth enamel does not directly cause cavities. However, tooth enamel erosion can lead to cavities because it exposes the inner layers of the tooth, which are more susceptible to damage When tooth enamel is eroded, the dentin (the layer under the enamel) becomes exposed. Dentin is a softer tissue than enamel and it is more likely to develop cavities To prevent cavities, it is important to avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks, use a straw when drinking acidic beverages, rinse your mouth with water after eating or drinking, chew sugarless gum to increase saliva flow, and visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings.

Does losing tooth enamel hurt?

Losing tooth enamel does not usually hurt because enamel does not have any nerves. However, tooth erosion can lead to dental fillings and tooth sensitivity, which means that your teeth may become sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.

If you have tooth sensitivity, there are several things you can do to relieve the pain. You can use a desensitising toothpaste, which contains ingredients that help to block the sensation of pain. You can also try using a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid acidic foods and drinks

If you are still experiencing pain after trying these home remedies, talk to your dentist. For more information on tooth decay, take a look at HealthDirect.