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Dental Implants: Stains, Whitenings and Other Considerations

A Lack of Enamel: 5 Steps to Strengthening Teeth that Lack Enamel

30 November 2016

Isobel Berry

It is easy to take something like tooth enamel for granted, especially if you have always had good teeth. However, eventually; especially if poorly maintained, your tooth enamel will begin to weaken and gradually erode until the layer of dentin beneath the enamel can be seen. When this happens, your teeth will appear aged like old parchment, yellow and misshapen due to the loss of enamel around the edges. 

Besides their appearance, teeth with only a thin layer of enamel will also be extremely sensitive to heat, cold and foods or drinks that contain acid such as soda, apples or candy. Dental erosion affects 41% of children in America, and 37% of children in the UK, but adults too are susceptible to the loss of enamel, due to age and poor dental hygiene practices, or dietary choices. 

If your teeth lack enamel and you experience sensitivity on a daily basis, you need to take action now to arrest any further deterioration of your teeth. If left untreated, the enamel will erode away to such an extent that the softer, more porous layer of dentin underneath will be exposed. When this happens, your teeth will be more susceptible to decay and may also fracture more easily. 

You can do something about it; however, before the damage is too great. Follow these five steps to restore your teeth to their former glory. 

Step One: Stop Consuming Acidic Food and Drink

It has probably crossed your mind in the past. However, it's easy to say yes to things like soda, candy, and coffee when your teeth are apparently healthy. 

But if you are to save your teeth, and save a lot of money and time in the long run, you need to cut out or cut down on things like: 

• Soda
• White wine
• Lemonade
• Vinegar
• Sports drinks
• Cocktails
• Citrus fruits
• Apples
• Candy
• Potato chip/popcorn (can become lodged between teeth)
• Breath mints
• Ice (chewing ice can break weakened teeth)

Step Two: Improve Your Diet

As well as cut out the bad stuff, you need to add more of the good stuff to your diet. While it is not possible to regrow tooth enamel, the remaining enamel can be strengthened as long as you supply your body with the nutrients and minerals it needs to remineralize your teeth. 

You will need: 

Vitamin D: Your body needs vitamin D in order to absorb the calcium your bones and teeth need. Include dairy products like eggs, milk and cheese in your diet for a good source of vitamin D. 

Calcium: Calcium strengthens bones and teeth. Again, eat dairy products. 

Phosphorous: This is also an important remineralizing element for damaged teeth. You will find it in salmon, meat and tofu. 

Vitamin Rich Veggies: Eat dark, leafy vegetables such as broccoli and kale for a steady supply of vitamins to keep your body working at optimal levels. 

Step Three: Use Enamel-Strengthening Products

Along with a good diet, you can also rely on enamel-strengthening products such as: 

• Xylitol Gum: Chewing this daily has been shown to remineralize teeth and strengthen tooth enamel. 
• Fluoride Toothpaste: Fluoride also strengthens tooth enamel and fights decay. 

Step Four: Enlist the Help of Saliva

One of your most helpful allies against tooth decay and enamel erosion is your saliva. Saliva acts as a natural anti-bacterial agent, neutralizes acid in your mouth after meals, and contains calcium, and phosphate, which are essential for strengthening and remineralizing teeth.

Step Five: Seek Dental Treatment

Finally, a trip to your dentist is a must. For teeth that have lost most of their enamel, cosmetic treatments such as bonding, or crowns can be used to strengthen teeth and give them back their whiteness. Even if your teeth don't require cosmetic help, pay a dentist a visit and they can at least advise you on how to better care for your teeth.

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