Dr. Brenda Paulen of Proud Smiles in Sandy Springs, GA is dedicated to your total health, not just the health of your smile. Dr. Paulen and her team work closely with each patient to address their dental health concerns and find the best treatment for their needs.
One of the most common dental concerns we treat at our dentist office in Sandy Springs is tooth enamel erosion, which cannot be reversed. However, with proper preventative care, you can prevent tooth enamel erosion. Learn more about common questions and treatments that can restore tooth enamel erosion and how to prevent it from occurring.
What is tooth enamel?
Tooth enamel is the outermost layer of the tooth. The tooth enamel is one of the hardest substances in the body. Once the tooth enamel is damaged, it can not be restored naturally. It is necessary to take care of your tooth enamel to prevent the need for complex dental treatments.
What causes tooth enamel erosion?
Certain factors can cause your tooth enamel to erode over time. Tooth enamel erosion can be caused by:
- Certain kinds of acids found in foods and drinks
- Certain medications
- Genetics
- Dry Mouth
- Acid reflux
- Bruxism
What are the signs of tooth enamel erosion?
It is important to know the signs of tooth enamel erosion so you can schedule an appointment to visit Proud Smiles. We will work with you to determine the best course of action.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common results of tooth enamel erosion. Tooth sensitivity can make eating and drinking uncomfortable. Your teeth may even hurt when being exposed to different temperatures.
- Tooth decay: As your enamel weakens, your teeth become more susceptible to cavities.
- Uneven teeth: When tooth enamel weakens over time, they can begin to chip and crack more easily.
- Tooth discoloration: As the enamel weakens, it can lead to yellow or shiny, spotted teeth.
How can I prevent enamel erosion in my teeth?
Tooth enamel erosion can weaken your teeth over time, leaving your teeth more prone to develop complex dental problems. It is imperative that you take preventive measures to help prevent the development of tooth enamel erosion.
- Incorporate drinking water into your routine. Water helps keep your mouth moisturized, as well as remove food particles from sticking to your teeth.
- Visit the dentist regularly. Preventative care visits are a great way to improve your oral health. During preventive care visits, Dr. Paulen can properly examine your teeth and spot any signs of complex dental problems. She will be able to treat your dental issues accordingly after your preventive care visit.
- Try to eliminate acidic food and beverages from your diet. If you do consume acidic foods or drinks, make sure you clean your teeth afterward.
- Use an ADA approved fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride can help strengthen the teeth. When choosing mouthwash, make sure you find one that is right for your needs.
- Restorative dentistry. Tooth enamel erosion can lead to the development of more complex dental problems, as well as affect the aesthetic of your smile. After a thorough evaluation of your enamel, Dr. Paulen can determine which service will help improve your smile.
Can you rebuild tooth enamel once it has been damaged?
Once the tooth enamel has been damaged, there is no way to reverse the effects of tooth enamel erosion. Cosmetic dentist Dr. Paulen does offer services like tooth bonding, dental veneers, and dental crowns to help treat the damaged tooth enamel.
Visit Proud Smiles in Sandy Springs, GA
Schedule an appointment with Proud Smiles online or call our office at (404) 418-7734 today to keep your smile healthy.