Strong dental enamel is resilient and sturdy. When you are able to maintain strong enamel, you give your smile it’s best chance at staying healthy for years to come. Our Elmhurst dentists are here to help you safeguard your enamel; that is why today we are discussing some of the common causes of enamel erosion. We hope that you find this information helpful and empowering!
First of all, there are a number of harsh or abrasive physical threats to your smile:
· If you are using a toothbrush that has bristles that are too firm, your dental enamel may become prematurely worn down as a result. Most patients can effectively clean their smiles with soft bristled toothbrushes—ask your dentist to find out what type of toothbrush is perfect for you.
· Also, keep in mind that if you are regularly chewing on ice, hard candies, or mints, you are also putting your enamel at risk. Chomping on hard substances can cause tiny cracks in your dental enamel. Over time these cracks may widen and intensify, and they can also become key spots of bacteria colonization.
Here are some additional threats to your dental enamel:
· Acidic foods and drinks lead to enamel demineralization. Citrus fruits and juices, for example, can really weaken your teeth over time.
· As bacteria grow and multiply, they release acids, which thin and damage enamel. This is why, when bacteria are able to sit on your smile for a long time, they bore through enamel and cause cavities.
As always, our Elmhurst dentists are here to help you make good decisions for your smile, and maintain strong enamel for as long as possible. Even if it has been a long time since you have seen a dentist, please don’t hesitate to call our office to schedule a consultation. It’s never to late to get back on track!