How to Strengthen Teeth Enamel?

Strengthening tooth enamel is critical for keeping a healthy, long-lasting smile. Enamel is your teeth’s protective outer layer, and maintaining it helps prevent decay and discomfort. In this post, we’ll go over how to strengthen teeth enamel using basic yet effective ways, such as brushing with fluoride toothpaste and altering your diet and behaviors for better dental health.

Foods That Support Stronger Enamel 

Here are some tips on how to strengthen teeth enamel by choosing a suitable food:

Dairy Delights: 

• Calcium and phosphates in dairy combine to preserve and strengthen enamel against acids.

Crispy apples:

• activate saliva, which promotes enamel health and a clean surface.

Leafy greens “like spinach and kale”:

• are high in magnesium and vitamins, which help strengthen enamel against acids.

Crunchy carrots 

• promote oral health by stimulating saliva, fighting acid assaults, and supporting enamel remineralization. 

Nuts and Seeds: 

• Almonds and sesame seeds contain minerals that help strengthen enamel and teeth.

Green tea: 

• contains catechins, which have antibacterial qualities and help prevent hazardous bacteria growth.

Strawberries 

• contain malic acid, which whitens enamel, and vitamin C, which is needed for collagen production.

Fish: 

• rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, can improve gum health and enamel strength. 
• Omega-3 fatty acids contain anti-inflammatory qualities, which promote a healthy oral environment and gum and enamel health.

Water

• Water is essential for maintaining normal saliva levels, which protect your enamel. 
• Saliva helps clean the mouth, remineralize the enamel, and neutralize acids. 

Common Causes of Enamel Erosion 

Acids in foods and liquids are a major cause of enamel degradation. Saliva constantly neutralizes acids in your mouth, protecting your teeth. However, if you consume too much acidic food and drink and do not wash your teeth correctly, the outer layer of enamel will erode over time.

What you eat might trigger enamel degradation, especially:

• foods high in sugar including ice cream, syrups, and caramel. 
• starchy foods like white bread. 
• acidic foods like apples, citrus fruits, and berries. 
• fruit drinks and juices.
• sodas with citric and phosphoric acids; and citrus fruits with high vitamin C levels.

Other causes of enamel degradation are:

• Teeth grinding.
• Acid reflux: as in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
• Low salivary flow, also known as xerostomia, is a symptom of conditions like diabetes.
• Regular use of medications, such as antihistamines and aspirin, can disrupt the digestive system and expose teeth to stomach acid. 
• Genetic disorders, such as amelogenesis imperfecta or enamel hypoplasia, can also affect tooth development.

Best Oral Care Habits for Lasting Protection

Here are the basic dental care behaviors for long-term protection and good tips on how to strengthen teeth enamel:

• Brush Twice a Day – Use fluoride toothpaste for two minutes each morning and evening to remove plaque and improve enamel.
• Floss daily to clean between teeth where your toothbrush cannot reach, reducing cavities and gum disease.
• Use mouthwash to refresh your breath and combat bacteria, minimizing plaque buildup.
• Limit Sugary Foods – Sugar feeds decay-causing bacteria, so avoid sugary snacks, soda, and juices.
• Eat a Well-Balanced Diet – Nutritious foods such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy products promote healthy teeth.
• Drink water to clean away food particles and bacteria and keep your mouth moist.
• Visit the dentist. Regular check-ups and cleanings every six months help to prevent significant problems.
• Avoid Tobacco – Smoking and tobacco use increase the risk of gum disease.

Reference

• Johansson, A.-K., Omar, R., Carlsson, G. E., & Johansson, A. (2012). Dental Erosion and Its Growing Importance in Clinical Practice: From Past to Present. International Journal of Dentistry, 2012, 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/632907
• Lussi, A., & Jaeggi, T. (2008). Erosion—diagnosis and risk factors. Clinical Oral Investigations, 12(S1), 5–13. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00784-007-0179-z
• National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. (2020, October). Oral Hygiene. Retrieved from www.nidcr.nih.gov website: https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/oral-hygiene