As we age, our teeth become weaker. This is because your enamel, the protective layer of your teeth, can become thinner over time. That being said, to maintain optimal oral health, it is crucial to comprehend the methods for strengthening your teeth and mitigating the risk of decay. Please continue reading to learn the steps you can take to fortify your teeth and why connecting with our general dentistry/dentists located in Basking Ridge & Morristown, NJ is in your best interest.
What Can Cause Weak Teeth?
Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body. However, various factors can cause the teeth to weaken. If you fail to practice good oral hygiene habits, plaque will build up on your teeth, which can erode your enamel over time. It’s important to understand the bacteria in plaque produce acids that break down the enamel, which can lead to tooth decay.
Unfortunately, despite how good your oral hygiene is, you may be genetically dispositioned for weak teeth. Some health conditions can pose a significant threat to your oral health. A condition that causes vomiting, like bulimia, or prevents the absorption of nutrients can leave your tooth enamel vulnerable to being easily damaged. A high-sugar diet can also cause weak teeth. Sugars and starches feed on bacteria and create acid that eats away at tooth enamel. Therefore, you should limit sugary or acidic foods and drinks.
What Can I Do to Make My Teeth Stronger?
Having strong teeth is essential as they are less prone to cavities and decay, which can lead to devastating problems down the road like gum disease or tooth loss if left untreated. In addition, they can help you chew your food properly, which is crucial for proper digestion and maintaining a healthy smile.
While regular brushing and flossing are very importnat, other factors such as your diet and certain health conditions can have an impact on your teeth. As such, if you are looking to restore tooth enamel or looking for a way in which you can otherwise strengthen your teeth, you must practice good oral hygiene. You should use fluoride toothpaste as it can protect your teeth from the acids produced by plaque.
Furthermore, you should drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is important as it can help keep your saliva balanced and prevent dry mouth. Drinking plenty of water also helps wash away food particles and debris that can turn into harmful bacteria, reducing your risk of tooth decay. Alongside staying hydrated, you should stop grinding your teeth as it can cause significant damage to the enamel.
As you can see, it’s imperative to take the necessary steps to strengthen your teeth to maintain your oral health. At Dental Associates of Basking Ridge, we are prepared to help you prioritize your dental care. Schedule an appointment with our dedicated team today to learn more about how we can help you.