Top 5 Tips for Avoiding Tooth Enamel Decay

Tooth enamel decay is a serious, but common problem. Our teeth are one of the most important parts of our physiology. Our teeth is what we use to chew our food and they affect our appearance. Brown, stained teeth can make us feel and appear less confident, which can take a toll on our self esteem. Luckily, there are a number of ways to avoid and prevent tooth enamel decay. Tooth decay occurs when the bacteria that feeds on the food in our teeth releases acids that burrow into our tooth enamel. What can happen – especially if you don’t treat the cavity – is the decay can reach the nerve, which could cause excruciating pain. Here are five tips for avoiding tooth enamel decay.

1. Brush your teeth regularly. It is important to brush your teeth twice a day – more if you had a particularly sugary meal or a meal rich with carbohydrates. The reason why carbohydrates cause cavities is because they turn into sugar when broken down by the saliva. Sugar causes cavities because it can cause a feeding frenzy among the bacteria in the teeth. If you have had a big, sugary meal, make sure to brush for at least two minutes.
2. Reduce your intake of acidic drinks. For instance, if you drink orange juice everyday, it can literally wreak havoc on your teeth. So, be sure to drink orange juice only occasionally. Also, things like sodas and soft drinks can be bad too, because they are not only acidic, but they are also sugary. Basically, acidic drinks can cause microscopic pores to build up on your teeth that can increase the risk for stains and discoloration – not to mention worsening enamel decay. If you do drink orange juice, be sure to brush right afterwards.
3. Drink plenty of milk or eat cheese after dinner. The reason for this is so you can neutralize the acids that are released by the bacteria in your teeth. So, if you are having a sugary meal, make sure to drink a glass of milk afterwards, especially if you know that you can’t get to a sink to brush your teeth. When it comes down to it, milk can also strengthen your teeth – with all the calcium.
4. Get a mouth guard to prevent bruxism. Bruxism is most commonly known teeth grinding and it can be a result of nervousness, or even genetics. Teeth grinding can cause pains and soreness the next day, but it can also cause you to wear away your enamel, which can open your teeth up to cavities. So, you may want to visit an orthodontist clinic, like Lake Granbury Dental & Orthodontics, to get fitted for a mouth guard.
5. Drink plenty of water. Drinking water can vastly decrease your chances of getting tooth enamel decay. For one, water can wash away the bacteria. Also, staying hydrated can keep your gums healthy and stronger, which can effectively help them fight off infection. If you want to keep your smile bright and beautiful, drink plenty of water.