Your teeth feature a durable outer layer called enamel. Enamel shields the inner layers of your teeth from harmful bacteria, but it is not indestructible. The enamel can erode over time due to a sugary or acidic diet, poor oral hygiene habits, or health concerns.
If you suffer from the deterioration of your tooth enamel, the teeth cannot heal or fix the damage on their own. This will leave your smile at risk of cavities and many other dental issues.
Do not delay treatment to replace dental damage like this. Your dentist can suggest a few options to treat dental erosion depending on the extent of the damage. Read on to learn details about three treatments your dentist might offer to restore weakened tooth enamel.
Remineralization
Enamel is made from several natural minerals, including calcium and fluoride. When you suffer dental erosion, your teeth lose these minerals. Targeted therapy, called remineralization, can reintroduce these minerals to your teeth to rebuild their strength.
You can complete remineralization with at-home products, such as toothpaste or mouthwash that contains fluoride. Your dentist may also suggest fluoride treatment in which they apply concentrated fluoride that will absorb into your teeth. Fluoride fortifies your teeth to fight off decay, stains, and more dental issues.
You can also include plenty of calcium in your diet because this mineral will add structure to your teeth too. Dairy products and leafy green vegetables, for instance, make for great sources of calcium that can boost your dental health.
Tooth Bonding Treatment
In the case of more extensive dental damage, your dentist may need to replace weakened enamel to restore your smile. They may use cosmetic dental treatments like tooth bonding for this task.
The dentist can apply composite resin to the affected teeth and mold it to the desired shape. This way, the bonding can cover weak spots in the dental structure. They cure the resin so that it hardens and seals into place.
The secure hold of bonding will keep the teeth safe. Plus, its color blends with your natural tooth for a beautiful appearance. Bonding will last for three to ten years, and you should note that it is subject to staining. Follow your dentist’s aftercare advice for the best results.
Dental Crowns
Severe cases of dental erosion may need more in-depth restorative treatment like dental crowns to fix the damage. The process involves placing a ceramic cap over the tooth and sealing it into place with dental cement. Dentists build crowns on a custom basis for each patient for a secure, comfortable fit that also looks gorgeous and natural in your smile.
You can look forward to long-lasting restoration with a crown. It resists stains and can stay over a tooth for fifteen years. The cap replaces lost enamel, shielding the tooth and preventing further dental damage. Find the right treatment for your unique case of dental erosion by calling your dentist today.