How to Prevent Enamel Loss

Tooth enamel is the hardest tissue in the human body. It protects your teeth when you chew on crunchy foods and consume acidic beverages. But over time the enamel can chip, scrape, and wear away. And once it is gone, the body can’t replace it, making your teeth vulnerable and putting your oral health at risk. That’s why it’s so important to prevent tooth enamel loss starting at an early age and throughout your whole life.

Here are tips to prevent enamel loss:

• Limit your consumption of highly acidic foods like soda and citrus fruits. When you do consume them, rinse your mouth out with clean water immediately afterward. 
• Don’t swish, swirl or hold acidic drinks in your mouth for too long
• Make use of a straw when you consume acidic drinks. The straw helps the liquids to bypass the teeth and travel directly to your throat.
• Cut down on the amount you snack. No matter what you eat, the acidity level in your mouth is elevated for a few hours after your finish. Only snack when you are truly hungry, and try to brush your teeth or at least rinse your mouth afterward.
• Chew sugar-free gum for a few minutes during the time between meals. Gum increases your saliva production which in turn enhances the teeth with minerals
• Drink more water, and drink water more frequently
• Always use fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride strengthens the teeth but it is not in all toothpastes, so be sure to ready the label carefully.
• Consider using a mouthwash along with a fluoride paste to give you extra protection from the effects of everyday acids.
• Make sure you’re using a soft-bristled brush.

Talk to your dentist to learn other ways to prevent enamel loss. Take care of the strongest substance in your body and your enamel will take care of you!