On the outermost layer of your teeth is the enamel, a hard protective coating that acts as the main line of defense against cavities and infection. Maintaining a strong enamel layer is key to good oral health, so it is important that you prioritize this within your dental hygiene routine.
However, many people experience enamel erosion thanks to acidic food and drink, poor oral hygiene, and various health conditions. Nevertheless, if you catch enamel erosion early, you have a plethora of ways to support and maintain this layer naturally.
To help you achieve strong teeth and a stunning smile, we have created this guide containing everything you need to know about maintaining tooth enamel.
Let’s get into it!
Understanding Tooth Enamel
Your teeth are made up of three key layers: the pulp, the dentin, and the enamel. The enamel layer serves to protect the entire tooth from pain and damage.
Enamel is composed of calcium phosphate arranged in a structure known as hydroxyapatite. The result is a shiny, hard coating that covers your teeth, protecting them from everyday wear and tear.
Enamel is the strongest substance in your body (yes, even stronger than your bones). However, whether it be due to a cavity, friction, or acidic foods, sometimes the enamel can wear away. This leaves your dentin and pulp exposed, making them susceptible to pain and damage.
Unfortunately, enamel cannot regenerate on its own. This is because it is not composed of any living cells. However, you can take steps to support enamel maintenance through a process called remineralization.
Remineralization occurs when mineral ions such as calcium or phosphate are deposited into your enamel, helping to keep it strong and reducing the risk of damage. Focusing on the health of your enamel is a great way to promote a healthy mouth and ensure you maintain a gleaming smile.
Natural Ways to Rebuild Tooth Enamel
There are many ways to support your tooth enamel naturally. Here are some of the easiest and most cost-effective ways you can promote healthy enamel and a strong smile.
Dietary Changes
The minerals that help to maintain your enamel can be found in many different foods. Making a conscious change to your diet to include more mineral-rich foods is a great way to promote enamel health.
Calcium Rich Foods
Calcium is a key component of tooth health, helping to maintain strong teeth.
Incorporating foods such as dairy products, leafy greens, and almonds, which are all naturally high in calcium, is a great way to increase your intake.
Phosphorus-Rich Foods
Phosphorus is another important mineral for maintaining enamel health.
Eating phosphorus-rich foods such as meat, fish, and eggs ensures you are getting the correct dosage of the mineral, which can help to support your teeth.
Vitamin D Sources
Vitamin D has a direct impact on calcium absorption, making it a key nutrient to incorporate into your diet.
Foods such as fatty fish and fortified foods greatly increase your Vitamin D intake. You can also use direct sunlight to boost your Vitamin D levels.
Reduce Acidic and Sugary Foods/Drinks
Acidic or sugary foods such as citrus, tomatoes, sodas, and sweets can wear down enamel over time.
Reducing your intake of these foods is a good way to maintain enamel health and keep your teeth strong.
Consider using sugar-free gum, drinks, and treats to reduce enamel wear.
Oral Hygiene Practices
Your oral hygiene routine can also have a significant impact on the health and strength of your enamel.
Here are some oral hygiene practices to incorporate into your daily routine to help maintain your enamel naturally.
n-Ha Toothpaste
A fantastic way to remineralize your teeth is by using toothpaste containing n-Ha. Nano-hydroxyapatite has been shown to be a powerful tool to remineralize teeth, leaving them stronger and more resistant to damage.
Here at Boka, we only use n-Ha in our products to ensure our clients can elevate their oral hygiene routine to the next level and achieve their healthiest mouth yet.
Proper Brushing Technique
The key to a healthy mouth is to ensure you are brushing your teeth correctly. The best technique is to use a gentle, circular motion for two minutes twice a day.
This removes plaque and leaves your mouth clean.
However, excessive brushing can cause enamel wear. Avoid using harsh bristles and focus on gentle sweeps.
Daily Flossing
Flossing is often overlooked, but it is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Make sure you floss once a day to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth.
Tongue Cleaning and Using Mouthwash
The tongue scraper can be used to gently clean the tongue, followed by a mouthwash to rinse away debris.
Regular Dental Checkups
The best solution to any dental issue is early detection. Staying on top of your oral health and catching any problems early on is the best way to ensure your teeth stay as healthy as possible.
By regularly visiting your dentist, you can receive a professional cleaning and ensure that your dentist can alert you to any potential problems.
Saliva Production
Saliva contains core minerals such as calcium and phosphate and acts as a direct supply to your teeth.
Prioritizing your saliva production is a fantastic way to boost your dental health. Here are the best steps you can take.
Chewing Sugar-Free Gum
To stimulate your saliva flow, try chewing sugar-free gum. This increases saliva production, which can help maintain your enamel.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is another key way to promote oral health. Water helps to rinse away any food particles and neutralize acids.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to maintain your tooth enamel naturally.
Oil Pulling
Some people swear by oil pulling as a way to boost oral health. However, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
If you want to try it, swish a small amount of coconut oil around your mouth for a few minutes before spitting it out.
Baking Soda Rinse
Another at-home method is rinsing your mouth with baking soda. However, there is limited evidence of its effectiveness, and it may be abrasive. If you choose this method, proceed with caution.
Avoid Teeth Grinding
One of the leading causes of enamel wear is grinding your teeth.
Reducing tooth grinding by wearing a mouthguard at night and being mindful during the day can help preserve your enamel.
Limitations of Natural Remedies
While natural remedies can help maintain enamel, they can only do so to a certain extent.
Severe enamel erosion requires professional dental attention.
If you are experiencing serious issues with your enamel, make sure you consult a dentist for personalized advice.
A Dentist's Perspective
Dr. Anjum Chadhuray, consultant endodontist, says, “When it comes to maintaining dental enamel, it is essential to have a healthy diet and a regular dental hygiene practice.
Lifestyle adjustments are the best option if you have enamel wear in its early stages. If you have an underlying problem, such as scratched enamel, you will need additional treatment.
It is important to practice good dental hygiene and talk with your dentist to receive personalized recommendations.”
The Bottom Line
Maintaining strong enamel is important for your dental health.
Taking a proactive approach with natural remedies and regular dental care is a great way to ensure that your enamel stays in good condition.
Remember that the best way to maintain enamel is by regularly following a dental hygiene routine. Consistency is key to seeing the best results!