TEETH PROBLEMS
Enamel defects: When the protection slowly wears off
Only healthy enamel prevents tooth pain and decay. The causes of enamel loss and the measures that help prevent it.
Tooth enamel: it is the hardest substance in the human body. Technically. Because acidic foods and nighttime grinding attack the outer layer of the teeth. Over time and with incorrect care, the enamel slowly declines. Enamel loss is one of the most common dental problems. The consequences are pain-sensitive teeth, small defects and an increased risk of tooth decay.
What exactly is tooth enamel?
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How is it attacked?
As strong as tooth enamel is, it can still be damaged. It is particularly affected by acids. If the pH value in the mouth drops due to acidic foods such as fruit, lemonade or wine, the tooth enamel softens. If this happens often or very regularly, for example if fruit juice is drunk during the day, the enamel of the teeth slowly wears away (medically known as: tooth erosion). The following factors also affect the enamel:
- Improper oral hygiene. Vigorous tooth cleaning with a stiff brush destroys tooth enamel.
- Night grinding (medically known as: bruxism). Uncontrolled jaw movements cause mechanical wear.
- Stomach acid. In rarer cases, certain underlying diseases are responsible for the loss of enamel. In the case of reflux or bulimia, for example, tooth enamel is destroyed by stomach acid.
How can tooth enamel defects be identified?
It is often difficult for an ordinary person to detect the loss and initial defects of enamel with the naked eye. A typical symptom that sufferers feel is tooth sensitivity. Intact tooth enamel is not sensitive to pain because it is not penetrated by nerves or blood. However, if the enamel is lost, the protection of the sensitive underlying dentin is reduced – hot and cold foods trigger an immediate pain response. Another sign is a toothache caused by tooth decay. Bacteria get through more easily if the enamel is defective. They can easily penetrate inside through the damaged surface structure of the tooth. The products of their metabolism open the tooth, caries develops.
It is good to visit the dentist regularly so that any loss of enamel can be recognized in time. With a trained eye, your dentist can quickly judge the condition of the enamel. For example, if the front teeth have become more transparent near the cutting edges, this is a bad sign. Dull, dull teeth or discolorations also indicate defects. The reason for the latter: the dentin shines more and more through the enamel. Its yellowish color makes the teeth look darker. Similarly, small cracks and dents on the occlusal surfaces indicate that the enamel is porous.
How can tooth enamel defects be identified?
If enamel loss is diagnosed, it is important to determine its causes. To do this, dentists often start by asking patients about their eating habits and therefore the acidic foods they often unwittingly consume. A food diary can provide information and also help those affected to become aware of these acids. Once irritations are identified, they should be avoided in the future. Since tooth enamel cannot be regenerated and also does not grow back. In the case of advanced enamel defects, the dentist will try to reconstruct the affected areas with fillings and crowns. In order to prevent this from happening in the first place, it is recommended to care for, strengthen and protect the enamel of the teeth. This is how it's done:
Stop teeth grinding. About 80 percent of all dental patients grind their teeth at night. A special bite splint protects the chewing surfaces and reduces abrasions. However, those who clench and grind their teeth often suffer from anxiety. This is why relaxation methods such as meditation, autogenic training or progressive muscle relaxation used before going to bed can also help – and thus protect tooth enamel.
Eat raw foods. Carrots, kohlrabi or celery require intensive chewing movements. which activate the protective flow of saliva. This is important because the minerals it contains neutralize aggressive acids and strengthen tooth enamel.
Brush the teeth gently. Over time, intensive brushing wears away tooth enamel. A sign that too much pressure is being applied is hair that wears out quickly. In this case, softer and slower movements will be worth it. Anyone who uses Lacalut aktiv toothpaste also strengthens tooth enamel with the sodium fluoride it contains and increases tooth decay resistance.
Build protection. Foods such as coconut oil or dairy products have protective properties. While the latter also counts as an acidic food, its high calcium content offsets the risk to tooth enamel.
Ask about side effects. Certain medications, such as certain antibiotics or antidepressants, can damage tooth enamel. Your treating physician may know of an effective alternative.
Avoid or replace acids. Acidic foods attack tooth enamel by lowering the pH level in the mouth. Soft drinks are particularly aggressive, but fruit, wine or juice can also cause damage in the long run. Safe drinks, on the other hand, include water and herbal teas. Those who eat acidic foods can rinse their mouth with water or drink a few sips of water afterward, which dilutes the acid. You should wait at least 30 minutes, or even better, an hour, before brushing your teeth so that the tooth enamel can regenerate.