Protecting Tooth Enamel

There's a lot more that goes into a great smile than just keeping the pearly whites, white.  Protecting tooth enamel plays an important role in having a beautiful and healthy smile.

What is tooth enamel?

Enamel is the thin outer covering of the tooth.  It's the hardest tissue in the human body and it helps protect teeth from the wear and tear that comes with chewing, biting and grinding.  It also helps insulate teeth from hot and cold, making it possible to enjoy ice cream or hot coffee.  While enamel is hard, it can chip or crack.  Once the enamel layer is lost, it cannot regenerate.

What causes enamel erosion?

Enamel erosion happens when acids wear away the enamel on teeth, which can lead to the loss of tooth structure.  The calcium that's in saliva will usually help strengthen teeth after you have a small amount of acid, but too much acid prevents that from happening.  Enamel erosion can be caused by a number of things:

• Excessive consumption of carbonated drinks - sodas and other carbonated drinks
• Fruit drinks (some acids in fruit drinks are more erosive than battery acid)
• Dry mouth or low salivary flow
• Diet (high in sugar and starches)
• Acid reflux disease
• Gastrointestinal problems
• Medications (aspirin, antihistamines)
• Genetics (inherited conditions)
• Environmental factors (friction, wear and tear, stress and corrosion)

Protecting Tooth Enamel

There are some simple things that you can do to help take care of your enamel and keep your teeth healthy:

• Brush and floss daily.
• Use fluoride toothpaste.
• See Dr. Steppler for regular check-ups and cleanings.
• Drink sodas in moderation.
• Be careful about other beverages also.
• Sip with a straw (helps acids from acidic drinks to bypass your teeth).
• Be mindful of snacking.
• Chew sugar-free gum.

Taking good care of your teeth lets you show off a great smile - and a healthy mouth - for a long time!