Enamel is the hard outer layer of a tooth. It covers the surface area of each tooth above the gumline. The enamel protects the softer layers underneath to maintain the health of the tooth. When tooth enamel is lost, it cannot be regenerated. Existing enamel can be hardened with fluoride, but once it is lost there is no way to get it back.
Have you experienced loss of tooth enamel? It may be due to various lifestyle choices. Here are some possible unknown causes of lost tooth enamel and some tips for making positive changes to stop the progression and improve your oral health and wellness.
Signs of Tooth Enamel Loss
Tooth enamel loss can cause the following signs and symptoms:
- Sensitivity. Loss of tooth enamel exposes the softer layers of your teeth (dentin and dental pulp) that exist below. Cold and heat can penetrate these softer layers and reach the nerves, which leads to sensitivity.
- Visibly worn teeth. You may be able to see places where your teeth are wearing away or appear shorter in length.
- Frequently cracked teeth. If you frequently experience cracked teeth, your enamel may be thin or worn away.
- Yellowing. As the enamel thins it exposes the tissues underneath, resulting in a yellow tint to the teeth.
Problems Associated with Lost Tooth Enamel
Why is enamel loss a problem? The following oral health concerns can develop as a result.
- Cavities. Enamel loss increases the risk of cavities as the hard outer layer of protection is missing or thinned out.
- Cracked teeth. Weakening of the enamel weakens the overall structure of the teeth, causing more frequent cracks.
- Loss of teeth. Teeth that lack proper protection from the enamel may become severely decayed or fractured and need to be extracted.
Lifestyle Choices That Can Lead to Loss of Tooth Enamel
- A high sugar diet. Sugar feeds bacteria and increases the amount of plaque buildup on your teeth, which gradually eats away at your tooth enamel.
- Consuming acidic foods and beverages. Foods and drinks that are highly acidic can cause your tooth enamel to break down.
- Alcohol consumption. Alcohol itself and the extra sugar it contains can damage tooth enamel.
- Teeth grinding. Grinding your teeth can gradually wear away your tooth enamel and increase the chances of cracked teeth.
- Acid reflux. In cases of severe acid reflux, the stomach acid that comes up may reach your mouth and teeth, potentially causing damage to the enamel.
- Dry mouth. If you experience dry mouth, the lack of saliva can lead to loss of enamel. The natural rinsing process that saliva provides is missing, allowing more plaque to form.
- Lack of oral hygiene. Failing to brush and floss daily can lead to loss of tooth enamel due to plaque buildup.
- Certain medications. Medications may contain ingredients that break down tooth enamel, and may also cause dry mouth.
- Tobacco use. Smoking and chewing tobacco contain chemicals that can break down tooth enamel.
Reversing the Damage
If you can already see the signs of tooth enamel loss, there are ways to improve the situation.
- Use prescription strength toothpaste. Your dentist can prescribe toothpaste with a higher concentration of fluoride, which can remineralize tooth enamel.
- Avoid habits that lead to enamel loss. Work on changing the lifestyle choices listed above that you have control over, and seek treatment for others such as acid reflux and teeth grinding.
- Have cracked or damaged teeth treated. If you can see visible damage to your teeth due to enamel loss, talk to your dentist about treatment. Restorative treatments can repair or replace teeth when necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Loss of Tooth Enamel
Can enamel grow back?
Unfortunately, lost tooth enamel cannot grow back. However, enamel that has softened or thinned out can be remineralized and hardened with fluoride. Using prescription strength fluoride toothpaste can help stop enamel loss.
Does calcium affect tooth enamel?
By eating foods rich in calcium you can strengthen your tooth enamel and reduce the chances of damage. Milk, cheese, and other dairy products that are low in sugar are best.
Do You Have Signs of Enamel Loss? Contact Eagle Endodontics
Eagle Endodontics provides a wide range of services that can restore the health of your teeth. If you have signs of tooth enamel loss, contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.