Your teeth should feel smooth and sleek when running your tongue over them. If you’ve noticed they feel a bit rough, you could be experiencing enamel erosion. Your enamel is the hard outer layer of your teeth. It is incredibly strong, but it can be damaged, leaving you at risk of various dental problems. Enamel loss isn’t something to ignore. Here’s why your teeth feel rough and what you can do to safeguard your smile.
Enamel Protects Your Teeth
Enamel is the defense system for your teeth. It protects the softer underlying dentin and pulp. Enamel is the hardest substance in your body. It’s even stronger than some metals, but it isn’t indestructible. Unfortunately, enamel can’t regenerate. Once it has been lost, it is gone for good. One of the first signs of enamel loss is changes to the texture of your teeth.
Causes of Enamel Erosion
Enamel gets thinner naturally over time because of wear and tear. However, various factors can accelerate enamel loss, like:
- Diet: Consuming a lot of sugar or acids will slowly eat away at your enamel. Besides sodas and candy, citrus fruits and other acidic foods will weaken your enamel.
- Acid Reflux: Untreated acid reflux can affect your teeth. They can be bathed in stomach acid, which will destroy your enamel.
- Pregnancy: Pregnancy causes the mouth to be more acidic, which can take a toll on your enamel.
- Chlorine: Swimming frequently in pools with high chlorine levels can damage your teeth.
Treating Enamel Loss
Your dentist can monitor your teeth to detect enamel loss while it’s minimal. They’ll create a personalized treatment plan to protect your pearly whites, which may include:
- Fluoride Varnish: Your dentist can apply fluoride varnish to your teeth to strengthen and remineralize your enamel. Fluoride is known as “nature’s cavity fighter,” which is why it’s used in preventive dentistry to combat enamel loss and decay.
- Calcium: Your teeth are largely made of calcium. Choose foods that are plentiful sources of calcium, like low-fat cheese and cow’s milk.
- Fluoride Toothpaste: Fluoride is added to toothpaste to strengthen the enamel in between regular dental appointments. When choosing toothpaste, look for those that aren’t abrasive, which can further damage your enamel.
- Diet Changes: Choose healthy foods that are limited in sugars and starches. It’s also best to moderate those that are acidic to protect your teeth.
Don’t ignore the signs of enamel loss, or a small concern can turn into a big problem. Your dentist has the solutions you need to ensure your teeth last for a lifetime.
About Dr. James K. Kramer
Dr. Kramer has over 30 years of experience in dentistry. He achieved his dental degree from the Temple University School of Dentistry and has completed continuing education in various specialties, like endodontics, oral surgery, and prosthodontics. Dr. Kramer strives to provide patient-focused services to create healthy smiles. He is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through our website or call (302) 200-3772.