08 Nov Prevent Tooth Decay Before It’s Too Late

Have you wondered what is the strongest tissue in the human body? Not your ligaments, or your tendons. It is enamel[1], the thin outer layer that covers the crown of your teeth.

Without protection from the enamel, your teeth become more susceptible to cavities and decay. While having a small cavity is not much of a hindrance, it could deteriorate into a severe toothache, infection and tooth loss[2]. If you have ever experienced a toothache, you will understand how bad it could ruin your day – and your wallet from visiting the dentist – so it is definitely something you never want to underestimate.

Despite the severe repercussions of poor oral health, most of us still give far less attention to our teeth until the worst happens.

What Is Enamel Erosion?

The beginning of your tooth nightmare starts from the erosion of enamel. Among many reasons that lead to an enamel erosion, one of the common causes is consuming excessive sugary foods and drinks without brushing your teeth properly. When the acids from the foods are not properly neutralised by your saliva or brushed away, the enamel starts to degrade in a process called demineralisation, and eventually causes a cavity in your teeth[3].

Symptoms of Enamel Erosion

Tooth sensitivity can be the first sign of enamel erosion. If you find your teeth becoming extremely sensitive to hot and cold drinks, or sweet and sour foods, it is likely that your enamel has thinned.

You may also observe gradual discolouration of your teeth. As they become more yellow and translucent, it is a sign that you have lost a significant layer of enamel and should seek advice from the dentist.[4]

How To Prevent Enamel Erosion? 

Before the enamel erosion leaves a hole in your teeth and wallet (from visiting the dentist), it is essential to start practising good oral hygiene and dietary habits.

#1 Rinse Your Mouth Regularly

Tap water contains protective fluoride – one of the key ingredients in toothpaste – that helps to neutralise the acidic remains on your teeth after food consumption. It is important to rinse your mouth thoroughly after every meal, instead of only relying on routine brushing.

#2 Brush Your Teeth with the Right Toothpaste

Not all toothpaste serves the same purpose. Look into the ingredients of your toothpaste to ensure that it contains fluoride that prevents mineral loss and tooth decay. This is why it is important for you to choose the right toothpaste, including using toothpaste specifically for sensitive teeth if you are affected by the problem.

#3 Drink More Water (And Less Soda)

Little needs to be said about the benefits of water. Drinking more water ensures constant salivation inside your mouth and helps to neutralise acids on your teeth. Cutting down on sugary drinks like sodas reduce the risk of enamel demineralisation and thus tooth decay.

#4 Adopt a Remineralising Diet

As much as there are acidic foods that contribute to enamel demineralisation, there are also foods that help to remineralise your teeth. Soy products such as soymilk and beancurd are rich in calcium and help to restore the loss of minerals in your teeth, whereas whole fruits and vegetables are rich in fibre and help to promote salivation flow[5].

In addition, probiotics such as yogurt and Premium Probiotic 10 contain good bacterial strains – specifically those that are naturally produced in your mouth bifidobacterium, reuteri and rhamnosus – that play a pivotal role in maintaining oral health and remineralisation.

Oral hygiene is not merely about twice-a-day brushing. Keeping your teeth in optimal condition involves additional effort of rinsing your mouth after meals, making healthy food choices, and practising good lifestyle habits. It is always better to protect your teeth early than regret later.

After all, a great smile makes a good first impression and so much more.

[1] What is dental enamel, and how does it protect your teeth? Source
[2] Tooth cavity and decay. Source
[3] Dental erosion Source
[4] Talks About Tooth Enamel Loss and Dental Erosion Source
[5] Enamel Remineralisation – how to remineralise teeth Source