Protect tooth enamel from the grind of everyday life.
The gradual wearing away of our teeth throughout our lives is a reality.
Follow ten simple tips to have better teeth forever!
There’s a SpaDental practice close to this lovely coastline.
If we think of our teeth as cliffs, standing up to the relentless beat of waves, we can understand that the harder they are, the better they last.
Teeth take a bit of a bashing!
Not literally, we hope. But if you’re in need, we can help with that too!
Designed to grind and chew and bite, teeth are strong.
There are a lot of demands on our teeth during a regular day, and at night too. Tooth enamel is incredibly resilient, therefore. It has to be.
But not so tough that we can abuse it.
Tooth enamel is eroded by:
- the chemical effects of acidic food and drink.
- the mechanical effects of abrasion.
10 tips to protect tooth enamel.
- Protect teeth with fluoride products, like toothpaste, mouthwash and fluoride treatments.
- Wear a night guard to prevent clenching or grinding.
- Use an electric toothbrush.
- Choose a toothbrush with softer bristles.
- Avoid acidic drinks, such as wine, cola, sports drinks and some fruit juices. If you must drink it, use a straw.
- End a meal with a drink of water or milk, and try not to snack in between.
- Always rinse with water after being sick.
- Don’t brush teeth right after you’ve eaten. Wait for thirty minutes or so for tooth enamel to re-mineralise.
- Seek treatment for acid-reflux.
- Don’t have any metal in your mouth (such as a tongue stud or grill) the dentist didn’t put there.
Give teeth a chance.
Protecting tooth enamel is about a healthy diet as well as good oral hygiene.
Avoid:
- salty crisps and crackers
- boxed cereals
- processed meats
- flavoured yogurts and
- sugary drinks
Favour instead:
- cheese, plain yoghurt and milk
- eggs, chicken and fish
- dark green veggies (yes to spinach!)
- apples and pears
- water, green or herbal teas
What are the signs we didn’t protect tooth enamel ?
- increased tooth sensitivity
- discolouration
- less shine and increased translucency
- a rounded appearance
- cracked and rough tooth surfaces, extreme sensitivity, and ‘cupping’, indicate more advanced dental erosion.
Your dentist can help.
Are you concerned about the function, feel or appearance of your teeth?
Make an appointment to talk to your dentist. Your dentist can recommend treatments to protect your teeth and enhance your appearance.
Anxious patients can benefit from treatment with sedation.
Possible solutions are: