Tooth enamel is among the strongest material in the body, so what happens when it becomes damaged or erodes away? Dr. Raymond Ribitch is a Mount Pleasant, MI dentist providing exceptional comprehensive care to patients of all ages and can help you restore your smile after tooth enamel erosion. Although it cannot be reversed, tooth enamel erosion is preventable and there are a variety of treatments available to reduce its effects on your smile and your health. Learn more about tooth enamel with these commonly asked questions.
What causes tooth enamel erosion?
Tooth enamel is the outermost layer of the tooth. The tooth enamel is one of the hardest substances in the body. Once the tooth enamel is damaged, it can not be restored naturally. It is necessary to take care of your tooth enamel to prevent the need for complex dental treatments.
Certain factors can cause your tooth enamel to erode over time. Tooth enamel erosion can be caused by:
- Certain kinds of acids found in foods and drinks
- Certain medications
- Genetics
- Dry Mouth
- Acid reflux
- Bruxism
What are the signs of tooth enamel erosion?
It is important to know the signs of tooth enamel erosion so you can schedule an appointment to visit Dr. Ribitch. He will work with you to determine the best course of action.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common results of tooth enamel erosion. Tooth sensitivity can make eating and drinking uncomfortable. Your teeth may even hurt when being exposed to different temperatures.
- Tooth decay: As your enamel weakens, your teeth become more susceptible to cavities.
- Uneven teeth: When tooth enamel weakens over time, they can begin to chip and crack more easily.
- Tooth discoloration: As the enamel weakens, it can lead to yellow or shiny, spotted teeth.
Ways to prevent tooth enamel erosion?
Tooth enamel erosion can weaken your teeth over time, leaving your teeth more prone to develop complex dental problems. It is imperative that you take preventive measures to help prevent the development of tooth enamel erosion.
- Incorporate drinking water into your routine. Water helps keep your mouth moisturized, as well as remove food particles from sticking to your teeth.
- Visit the dentist regularly. Preventative care visits are a great way to improve your oral health. During preventive care visits, Dr. Ribitch can properly examine your teeth and spot any signs of complex dental problems. He will be able to treat your dental issues accordingly after your preventive care visit.
- Try to eliminate acidic food and beverages from your diet. If you do consume acidic foods or drinks, make sure you clean your teeth afterward.
- Use an ADA approved fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride can help strengthen the teeth. When choosing mouthwash, make sure you find one that is right for your needs.
- Restorative dentistry. Tooth enamel erosion can lead to the development of more complex dental problems, as well as affect the aesthetic of your smile. After a thorough evaluation of your enamel, Dr. Ribitch can determine which service will help improve your smile.
Can you rebuild tooth enamel once it has been damaged?
Once the tooth enamel has been damaged, there is no way to reverse the effects of tooth enamel erosion. Dr. Ribitch does offer services like tooth bonding, dental veneers, and dental crowns to help treat the damaged tooth enamel.
Visit Mid MI Smiles
Dr. Ribitch welcomes all patients to his state of the art Mount Pleasant, MI dental office. If you are looking for a caring, committed dentist, contact us online or call our office at 989.268.7966.