Monday, May 27, 2013

Prevent Enamel Erosion

Enamel erosion happens when the protective covering of your teeth wears away. Enamel is the hard surface on the exterior of the tooth that protects the tooth itself. Acidic foods and drinks can wear the enamel away and which allows your tooth to rot and decay.








Instructions


1. Consider your diet. This is the number one cause of enamel erosion. Acidic fruits, wine, citrus juices and soft drinks all contribute. Starches can also have this effect because they quickly metabolize into sugar; in turn, the body responds by releasing acids. Cut back on these items if you can.


2. Swish your mouth out with water after eating one of the foods mentioned in Step 1. This will remove some of the acid left on your teeth.


3. Chew sugar free gum. This will increase saliva production and saliva has a neutralizing effect on acid.


4. Think about what vitamins you're taking. If you take extra Vitamin C for dietary supplementation, your tablets have the possibility of giving you enamel erosion. You can prevent this by switching over to a vitamin swallowed with a cup of water (as opposed to chewable Vitamin C).


5. Try not to brush your teeth for an hour after you eat an acidic food. Acid actually causes the enamel to become soft and porous and brushing can damage the enamel while it's soft.








6. Get regular dental cleanings to maintain the condition of your teeth. You can prevent damage and gum disease by seeing your hygienist every 3 to 6 months.

Tags: your teeth, This will, with water