Brushing and flossing will help protect your smile, but your tooth enamel may still be in distress at some point in time. Food residue, plaque, bacteria, and even harsh brushing can erode the tooth enamel, increasing your risk of tooth sensitivity, decay, and even painful infections. Restoring this enamel is possible in some cases, but professional help may be necessary. With this guide, you will learn about remineralization and if you are a good candidate for this method of restoring your tooth enamel.

Remineralization 101

Like the name suggests, remineralization rebuilds the minerals in your mouth that are needed to strengthen and restore tooth enamel. While surprising to learn, you and your dentist can start the process of remineralizing your teeth to restore enamel and enjoy a healthier, more appealing smile.

Remineralizing Options

To get started, your dentist will most likely recommend an application of fluoride to your teeth. Fluoride rebuilds minerals on the enamel, restoring eroded areas while strengthening the enamel, as well.

Fluoride can be applied in the dentist's office, but you should also invest in toothpastes and alcohol-free mouthwashes that contain this important ingredient, too.

Saliva is an imperative part of protecting your tooth enamel. Unfortunately, you may not be producing enough saliva to rinse away food residue and bacteria. Insufficient saliva, or dry mouth, is a common problem while taking certain medications, but it can affect everyone at different times of their life.

To increase the production of saliva, consider chewing sugar-free gum daily and drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.

Most dentists recommend limiting your intake of caffeinated beverages, such as coffee, soda, and tea, since caffeine is known to dry out the mouth. Finally, avoid tobacco products. Do not smoke cigarettes or use chewing tobacco because the nicotine and tobacco also decrease saliva production.

Taking a few supplements each day can also help remineralize your tooth enamel. A multi-vitamin is ideal, since they contain all the essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, D, and E, for healthy teeth and gums. Consider a calcium supplement, too, which promotes bone health, directly improving the health of your teeth.

Finally, schedule routine checkups and cleanings with your dentist. During these visits, dental hygienists are able to remove food residue, plaque, and tartar, reducing the risk of further erosion of the enamel. This promotes healthy teeth and gums.

Damaged enamel is common, but it does not have to affect your oral health forever. Contact a clinic, like Persona  Dental,  for more help.