If you don’t care for your teeth properly, it’s more likely that you will experience enamel erosion, or the weakening of the outer tooth surface caused by acids in the mouth. This means more sensitivity and discomfort, as well as additional time in the dental chair. Fortunately, there are ways you can prevent this from happening. Continue reading to learn some tips about how to strengthen your teeth from your family dentist.
Brush Twice Daily
The first step into having strong, healthy teeth is keeping up with your daily brushing. This helps to remove food particles and plaque that builds up on your teeth. To brush properly, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and place it at a 45-degree angle along the edge of your gumline. This is the easiest way to brush away plaque and food debris from the surface of the enamel. Move back-and-forth across two or three teeth at a time.
Floss Everyday
Not all food particles and plaque buildup can be removed by regular brushing. That’s why it’s so important to floss once a day. To do so properly, wind about 18 inches of floss around the middle fingers of your hands and pinch together with your thumbs. Leave about 1-2 inches between your fingers for flossing. Use this to gently guide the string between your teeth. Use a clean section of floss between each tooth.
Use Products That Contain Fluoride
Fluoride is a natural mineral that is found in rock and leaches into groundwater. In fact, it is found in all natural water supplies at some concentration. Because of its teeth strengthening properties, it is often added to city water supplies to help prevent against tooth decay. It is recommended by the ADA to use fluoridated toothpaste. Mouth rinses that contain fluoride are also a great option.
Watch What You’re Eating
A sugary treat every once in a while doesn’t usually hurt but constantly consuming food items with high sugar and acid levels leads to erosion of the enamel and the weakening of your teeth. Foods that are most damaging for your smile include dried fruit, sticky candy, sugary coffee drinks, acidic citrus fruits, soda, and sports drinks. Instead, reach for high fiber fruits and veggies like carrots, apples, or celery. Nuts, yogurt, and cheese are also great options. If you’re thirsty, have a glass of water or milk.
See Your Dentist Regularly
By having your teeth cleaned and receiving a checkup from your family dentist regularly, you will have a better chance of maintaining the strength of your teeth as well as gum health. Even the most diligent brushers and flossers miss hard to reach places. Your clinical team clears away plaque and tartar buildups as well as checking for early signs of gum disease, oral cancer, and other issues.
Nobody wants to spend more time getting dental work done. By taking care of and strengthening your teeth now, you will be able to show off your healthy smile for years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Rupeshwar Renkuntla provides a wide array of services at his practice in Saginaw, TX. He completed his Bachelor of Dental Surgery in India before moving to the United States and earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery in Oklahoma. He has acquired nearly two decades of experience and is a member of the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (817) 989-2832.