If you suffer from weak tooth problems such as multiple cavities or white spots, the cause could be due to the enamel on your teeth having become demineralized. We will briefly explain what demineralization of the tooth enamel is and how you can remineralize your teeth to strengthen them and reduce future oral complications. Keep in mind that demineralization is not tooth damage, but rather a precursor to damage and other dental issues.

Enamel Demineralization

Demineralization is basically what happens when the percentage of minerals in your enamel lowers past a certain point. Tooth decay follows demineralization and is caused by a number of factors. Enamel is very hard and the first line of defense against other issues and once plaque takes hold of enamel that has been weakened, it’s easy for the tooth, root, and dentin to become damaged. This weakening reduces the visual aesthetic of the oral cavity while also making oral hygiene a much more complicated affair.

Preventing Demineralization

If you live in a developed country, avoiding drinks that have high amounts of sugar or acid, such as coffee and soda is one way to reduce the onset of demineralization. Hard brushing and lack of proper oral hygiene also contribute to demineralization. In some cases, a poor diet can be a cause of enamel demineralization. Once your enamel erodes, you can’t get it back. Unlike organic tissue, it doesn’t re-grow and there are no sources that can offer enamel as a graft for that which has been damaged. Thankfully there are dental treatments that can help reverse the demineralization process, and these are typically referred to as remineralization.

Remineralization Treatments

Fluoride, which is a mineral that occurs naturally, is one of the most commonly used treatments we use on our patients here at Weston Dental Office. It helps restore strength to the enamel of the teeth by replacing lost minerals. In most cases, a foaming gel will be applied to the entire surface of the teeth following a deep cleaning session. Toothpaste that contains added fluoride is also recommended for all ages. Some cities even add small amounts of the mineral to the drinking water.

In cases where a lack of proper nutrition is the cause of demineralization, a change of diet is another way to effect remineralization. Adding food that has high amounts of phosphates and calcium such as leafy greens and milk is a great way to start. Fluorides can also be found in seafood, wheat, and other dairy products which will also boost your enamel remineralization efforts.

Though adding these foods to your diet is beneficial, it will not cure demineralization completely. The body can only absorb a certain amount of minerals daily so overstuffing won’t have any effect. It’s important to see regular medical care for your teeth as well as get regular fluoride treatments to ensure that your oral health is maintained.

How We Can Help

If you have any reason to believe that you could fall into a moderate to high risk for problematical teeth, then call Weston Dental Office at (416) 247-1928 to request an appointment. The dentists will confirm whether fluoride treatment would be beneficial to you to ensure that your smile remains in perfect shape.