Enamel is the thin, clear layer of protection on our teeth. As we age, we can lose tooth enamel naturally and weaken it by consuming sugary foods, acidic drinks, and brushing improperly.
Unfortunately, tooth enamel can’t be restored once it’s gone. You can, however, strengthen your tooth enamel. Read on to learn why you can’t restore tooth enamel, but you can repair it using over-the-counter products and regular visits to your dentist.
Can Mouthwashes Restore Enamel?
Mouthwash can’t restore enamel, but it can protect it from erosion and help prevent it from getting worse. The weaker your enamel, the more susceptible you’ll be to cavities.
Here’s how mouthwash helps tooth enamel: Mouthwash contains antimicrobials, which are the bacteria that fight plaque and gum disease. Regular use of mouthwash can help deter enamel erosion from harmful bacteria.
We recommend you choose mouthwash products without fluoride alcohol, triclosan, or sodium lauryl sulfate.
Are There Toothpastes That Restore Enamel?
OTC toothpaste may help strengthen and protect your enamel but, again, nothing will restore the enamel already lost.
Thankfully, our mouths naturally strengthen tooth enamel through the saliva we produce. Saliva contains helpful minerals, like calcium and phosphate. These minerals bond to your teeth and “fill in” weak spots in the enamel.
Toothpaste, in general, helps strengthen dental enamel by helping it resist cavities. While there are toothpastes on the market aimed at enamel repair, we recommend you first consider getting many of the needed minerals from the foods you eat. Fiber-rich foods, lean meats, and dairy products are good sources. Drinking plenty of water and cutting back on acidic drinks such as coffee and soda can help tooth enamel maintain its mineral strength. The combination of regular brushing and a healthy diet is the best way to prevent loss of tooth enamel.
Can Flossing Help Strengthen Tooth Enamel?
Yes and no. Flossing helps prevent plaque; plaque weakens enamel. Flossing alone will not strengthen the enamel of your teeth, but when combined with proper brushing, rinsing, a healthy diet, and regular visits to your dentist it becomes part of a great arsenal against tooth enamel loss.
What Can a Dentist Do to Repair My Enamel?
Susquehanna Dental Arts can repair tooth enamel with a tooth bonding treatment. We’ll attach a tooth-colored composite resin to weakened areas and protect the tooth surface from further erosion. When extensive damage exists, you may need a tooth crown. A crown is a permanent cap that covers your tooth to protect it and to improve its appearance.
If you have questions about tooth enamel restoration, we encourage you to give us a call.