Fighting Enamel Erosion Is as Simple as One, Two, Three
Prevention is always key!
Do you know just how valuable your tooth enamel is?
The answer is VERY!
And while our precious surface enamel is the hardest substance in the body, it isn’t 100% indestructible – with habits such as aggressive brushing, nail biting or eating a diet high in acidic foods and drinks capable of causing damage.
Is your tooth enamel showing signs of wear? Signs such as tooth sensitivity, discolouration and noticeably jagged/rough or worn edges could all be indications that your enamel is wearing. Our Burlington dentist will be able to tell you if you should be concerned during a check-up at our clinic.
Thankfully, there are three key things you can do daily to protect your precious enamel. They are:
1. Avoiding regular consumption of acidic foods and drinks.
There are certain substances like citrus fruits/juices and salad dressings that are notorious for attacking the enamel. Try to limit your consumption of these foods and drinks, and when you do consume, swish some water or milk around in your mouth afterward to help reduce the strength of acidity present in your mouth. It’s a simple trick that can help a whole lot!
2. Use a soft bristled toothbrush and brush gently.
Brushing with too much force, especially with a toothbrush containing hard bristles, is an easy way to wear away the enamel over time. You’ll get just as effective of a clean by using a soft bristled toothbrush combined with a gentle brushing technique – we promise!
3. Abstain from teeth grinding, clenching, nail biting, or biting down on hard objects.
Such habits that exert constant pressures on the teeth could wear and/or chip/fracture the enamel, and potentially the deeper layers that lie beneath. If you suspect you have a teeth grinding (bruxism) habit, talk to our dentist – you just may need a mouth guard to protect your teeth at night.
Well, will you be making any big (or small) changes to better protect your enamel?
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