5 Simple tips for tooth enamel remineralization Tooth enamel is the hard outer shell that covers the teeth's inner layers and protects them from wear and tear. Enamel is the hardest substance in our body but it will lose its rigidity when it loses its mineral components such as calcium and phosphate. The acidic substances present in foods and certain drinks make the enamel lose some minerals. Saliva helps the teeth enamel to restore the lost minerals and nutrients. Such natural retrieval of enamel's mineral components is known as remineralization. This rebuilds the teeth surfaces and prevents cavities.
We can boost the remineralization process with lifestyle changes, diet and especially good oral care. Dr.Senthil Kumar, a reputed dentist in Trichy has shared some DIY tooth remineralization tips here.
How does Teeth Remineralization happen? Our teeth's outer surface has many minute pores called dental tubules. They help minerals, vitamins, nutrients and others present in foods we intake enter the enamel. It is ideal for the remineralization process as well. When you take eatables rich in minerals that strengthen the enamel, they reach the enamel with those grooves.
Similarly, a tooth's inner layers also aid in the remineralization process. Dentin is a hard layer present underneath the enamel. When our body diagnoses problems in a tooth, then the tooth's dentin receives an increased level of nutrients. The dentin takes a small proportion and passes the remaining nutrients to the enamel layer. Thus Dentin strengthens a tooth's outer surface. On the other hand, cells in a tooth's pulp chamber pass a dentinal liquid called lymph material to all regions of a tooth through the tubules. This aids in extracting the acidic substances, bacteria and other problematic agents stick to the teeth. Any imbalance in these processes and salivary flow distracts the body's ability to rebuild the enamel and ends in cavities.
How can we Remineralise our teeth at home? 1) Avert Sugary and acidic foods
Sugar is highly acidic. Consuming sugar in any form will harm your teeth. Whether it is chocolates, sweetened drinks or other, the sugar substances in these provide an acidic environment and make the bacteria thrive in the mouth. Likewise, the blending of sugar with saliva leads to plaque build up on the teeth surfaces. Acidic foods and drinks also cause this problem and accelerate the enamel erosion process. That is why Dentists ask people to avoid highly acidic and sweetened foods. 2) Take Calcium and Vitamin D rich foods
As calcium is the major constituent of enamel, taking calcium-rich foods helps our body to rebuild the enamel effectively. Vitamin D is also essential for the teeth as it can prevent cavities. We recommend our patients to replace crunchy snacks and carbonated drinks with almonds and dairy foods like cheese, yogurt. It is because the calcium in these foods feeds an enormous amount of calcium for our body. 3) Choose Lactose-free milk
Even though the dairy products are the power source of calcium, they contain a specified amount of acidic particles. For instance, milk has lactose which is a type of acid. Frequent or excess consumption of this also creates an acidic environment in your mouth. It is better to prefer lactose-free milk and limit your dairy foods intake.
4) Restrict fruits consumption
We agree that fruits are good for our health. They also possess the minerals required for the well-being of our oral health. In contrast, fruits and fruit juices have acidic compounds which will soften the enamel and erode them. Citric fruits like lemon, orange, pineapple, grapes have powerful acidic contents for enamel erosion. It is advisable to limit the intake of fruits and fruit juices. Don't forget to swish your mouth after taking fruits and their extracts. 5) Oral Hygiene
Proper cleaning of your teeth is essential to remove the harmful microbes which weaken the enamel. Otherwise, oral bacteria agitate the remineralization process. Use Fluoride toothpaste because fluoride is an inevitable compound to strengthen the enamel. Use Soft bristle toothbrush or electric toothbrush. Chew sugar-free gums as they produce more saliva to feed teeth the required nutrients for remineralization. Drink plenty of water for more salivation.
Bottom line Our body empowers the teeth to remineralize themselves but it depends on what you eat and your care on teeth. In simple words, a well-balanced diet, effective oral hygiene routine along with cutting or limiting certain foods will boost remineralization and extend the teeth's longevity.