Tooth enamel is the thin, hard outer covering that protects your teeth from physical damage like chewing and biting. Unfortunately, poor diet and an u 韓国歯列矯正
nhealthy oral care routine can cause tooth enamel erosion, which leads to sensitivity, cracks and chips.
韓国歯列矯正 韓国歯列矯正Although tooth enamel cannot grow back once it is damaged, there are ways to repair weakened enamel. Read on to learn about some of the best solutions.
1. Fluoride Treatment
The shiny white surface of your teeth is primarily made of enamel, and it plays an essential role in protecting the inner, living parts of your tooth. It’s largely resistant to damage, but over time a poor diet can erode it, making your teeth more susceptible to cavities and sensitivity. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce your risk of tooth erosion. These include using a fluoride-containing toothpaste twice daily, flossing, and using mouthwash, and visiting your dentist for regular cleanings and examinations.
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in rocks, plants, and oceans, and it’s commonly added to community water sources and dental products. It makes the teeth more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and foods, slows and even reverses early tooth decay, and promotes remineralization. It can be administered topically as gels, varnishes, and foams that you brush onto the teeth, or systemically in the form of mouth rinses or tablets that you swallow.
Although too much fluoride can be harmful, the small amounts that are used in professional fluoride treatments are very safe. However, it’s important to limit your intake of acidic foods and drinks because these can stain the enamel and cause further deterioration of the tooth. If your enamel has eroded to the point that you can see the dentin, it’s time for some professional treatment.
2. Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a minimally invasive restorative procedure that can correct a variety of cosmetic concerns such as gaps, discoloration, and cracks. It is done without removing any portion of the tooth, and the dentist can shape and mold the resin to fit your specific needs and goals. Using a shade guide, the dentist will choose a composite resin that matches your natural tooth color and then apply it to the surface of the damaged tooth. Once it is positioned correctly, it is hardened with a UV light.
Bonded teeth are often very difficult to tell apart from the surrounding natural teeth, especially when the procedure is done with a skilled hand and artistic eye. It is a good option for hiding small stains and cracks and can also be used to lengthen the appearance of a tooth or make the front teeth uniform in size.
Because bonded teeth are not as strong as natural teeth, you will need to take care of them as you would with any other dental restoration. This means brushing at least twice daily, flossing once a day, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash. You will also need to schedule regular dental cleanings and checkups. It is important to avoid habits that can shorten the lifespan of your bonded teeth, including biting fingernails, chewing on pens and other hard objects, or grinding your teeth at night.
3. Veneers
Veneers can be used to hide cosmetic flaws of the teeth like chips, cracks, and minor misalignment. These are thin porcelain shells that are placed on the front of the tooth or teeth to repair them.
Loss of enamel occurs due to acid exposure, over-zealous tooth brushing, stomach acid associated with acid reflux disease, and other lifestyle choices. It is important to note that once the enamel gets eroded, it does not grow back. However, the good news is that veneers can replace the lost enamel and improve the appearance of the smile.
The process of applying veneers is a bit more involved than other cosmetic dental procedures. A dentist will first prepare the teeth by removing a bit of the surface of the tooth to make room for the veneer. Once the dentist has shaped the veneer, they will bond it to the tooth with a special cement. During this procedure, the patient may experience some throbbing pain for several hours until the anaesthetic wears off.
Porcelain veneers are durable and can last for 10 to 15 years or longer. However, they are not as durable as natural teeth. Therefore, veneers should only be considered for those who have healthy teeth and are willing to commit to keeping them in good condition with proper oral hygiene.
4. Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that help restore the look and function of a damaged tooth. They also protect weakened teeth from future damage and decay.
Although tooth enamel can be worn away by excessive exposure to sugary, acidic and processed foods, carbonated drinks, hard substances and poor oral hygiene, your body’s natural re-mineralization process is usually able to keep it intact. However, if your teeth experience significant damage due to severe erosion, trauma or tooth decay, you may need to visit your dentist for more extensive treatment.
A crown can be made of a number of materials. Metal crowns are generally more durable than porcelain, but they can be noticeable because of their dark color. Gold alloys are very strong, while nickel-chromium and cobalt-chromium alloys are more corrosion resistant. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are made with porcelain that covers all or most of the surface of the metal, giving them a more natural appearance.
If your tooth enamel is severely damaged, a dental crown is one of the best options for repair. Your dentist will recommend the type of crown that is best for your particular situation. You should be aware that while crowns are considered cosmetic treatments, they are often covered by major restorative dental insurance plans, especially if you see an in-network dentist and choose the right type of crown.