Did you know that tooth enamel is the strongest part of your entire body? That is why it’s important that you take care of the enamel on your teeth. Read this post as we break down all the information you need to know about tooth enamel and how to protect your teeth from causing your enamel to erode.
What is tooth enamel?
Tooth enamel is the semi-transparent, outer layer of the teeth that protects teeth from daily erosion. It helps to keep you from feeling both really cold and hot food and beverages as well as preventing acids and other harmful chemicals from damaging your teeth. If you let this outer layer crumble then you’re putting your teeth at a higher risk of decay and cavities. You’ll also notice that many of the things you eat will leave your teeth feeling sensitive.
What types of food can harm your enamel?
Eating lots of sugary foods like cookies and candy can damage your teeth because of the sugar and acids they contain. You’ll also want to avoid eating sour candy and foods since they could also contain lots of sugar and acid. If you grind your teeth a lot then you could cause damage to your enamel. Brushing your teeth too hard can also hurt your enamel so its best that you use a soft bristle and brush gently.
What are the symptoms of tooth enamel erosion?
Some symptoms that you may experience are:
- If you experience pain while eating hot and cold foods
- teeth that become yellow
- If you notice a glossy or polished looking surface on your teeth
- If you feel the edges of your teeth are rough and uneven
How can you protect your tooths enamel?
The most important thing you can do to protect the enamel of your teeth is to make sure that you’re practicing good oral care. This means that you want to make sure that you’re brushing, flossing and rinsing daily. Avoid drinking and eating foods that contain high amounts of acid such as soda and certain citrus juices. If you are going to drink or eat beverages with acid then make sure that you drink water directly afterward. If you eat cheese or drink milk after your meals then it should help you avoid those acids. Chewing sugar-free gum also helps to lower the amount of acid in your mouth as well as helping in producing more saliva for your mouth.
Should you have more questions or concerns regarding how you can protect your teeth from eroding your enamel, then please speak with your dentist or oral care provider so they can assist you.