Can Special Toothpastes Fix Your Enamel?
Why Healthy Tooth Enamel is Essential
Have you ever noticed how strong your teeth are? You’ve probably bitten into something hard, such as an apple, without even worrying about them breaking. What makes them so strong is the enamel that surrounds each tooth. This layer on your tooth is made of minerals and is the strongest substance in your body.
Your enamel is what protects your tooth from decay and damage. If it’s healthy enough, it’ll block out the bacteria and harmful ingredients in your food and beverages that can cause cavities or discoloration.
What Does Enamel Repair Toothpaste do?
If your teeth have started to become weak or discolored, it’s probably because your enamel is decreasing. There are many different types of toothpaste that say they can repair or strengthen enamel.
When you think of something being repaired, you probably assume this means its completely restored to its original form. For example, products that contain collagen are known to make your hair and nails grow longer.
If this is the case, then enamel repair toothpaste should make deteriorated enamel grow back, right? According to dentists such as Dr. Jonelle Stovall in Goldsboro, NC, once enamel is gone, you can’t get it back.
This dental product doesn’t cause re-growth, but it does strengthen existing enamel. It remineralizes the tooth, making it harder and less sensitive to certain foods or beverages.
Dentist Recommended Enamel Toothpastes
Oral hygiene is an important part of your daily routine, and using quality dental products will ensure your teeth remain healthy and attractive as well. If you’re worried about the current state of your enamel and want to ensure it remains as strong as possible, consider using a toothpaste that’s specifically designed for this purpose.
Choosing types that have a proper amount of fluoride and similar active ingredients will be most beneficial for your smile. The following toothpastes are highly recommended by dentists like Dr. Matt Dillard in Charleston, SC:
- Sensodyne Pronamel — most commonly recommended by dentists due to its effectiveness
- Crest Pro-Health Advanced — this is an affordable option that still provides the benefits you need.
- Colgate Sensitive Complete Protection — a good option for people with extra sensitive teeth
- Tom’s of Maine Enamel Strength — contains natural ingredients and is free of artificial dyes and sweeteners.
Other Ways to Protect Your Enamel
While enamel strengthening toothpaste can be great for protecting your existing enamel, it’s not 100% guaranteed to protect it. Your diet and the natural strength of your teeth play a factor in the wear and tear of your enamel as well. Making lifestyle changes may be necessary if you want your smile to remain beautiful and free of decay.
Eating Healthy
Foods and beverages that are high in sugar or have high acidity levels are more likely to eat away at your tooth enamel. Some of the culprits include candy, cake, citrus fruit, wine, and sports drinks.
Dark-colored drinks such as coffee and fruit juice are likely to wear away the hard outer surface of your teeth as well, leaving them stained and discolored.
It’s recommended that you limit your intake of sugary foods and choose healthier options such as vegetables or whole grains. If you decide to consume substances high in sugar, make sure to rinse your mouth with water and brush afterward.
Visiting Your Dentist Regularly
In addition to using a special toothpaste and eating well, visiting your dentist will help prevent your enamel from deteriorating as well. They can examine your teeth and immediately spot any signs of decay.
Knowledgeable dentists like Dr. Irfan Ahmad in Orlando, FL can offer you services that are meant to protect your tooth’s enamel long term. Fluoride treatments are a popular option that’s used to provide your teeth with extra strength and protection. Your dentist will evenly spread the paste on your teeth and will often tell you not to eat or drink for about 30 minutes.
Dental sealants are another effective way to preserve your enamel. They’re made of a thin, plastic dental coating and are placed over your teeth. They’re most commonly used on your molars, as this is where most food is chewed. If your enamel is highly eroded, sealants will imitate it to ensure your teeth are protected from decay.
The Truth About Your Enamel Fixing Toothpaste
Your enamel may be the hardest substance in your body but, unlike other parts, it’s inactive and can’t grow back once it’s worn away. People assume that enamel repair toothpaste is going to restore their enamel, but all it can do is protect your current enamel.
The ingredients in the toothpaste, like fluoride, will strengthen the tooth to help it fight off bacteria and stains. Using special toothpastes such as Sensodyne Pronamel, receiving protective treatments from your dentist, and eating healthy will help your teeth retain as much enamel as possible.