Can Regeneration Happen to Tooth Enamel?

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    Importance of Tooth Enamel

    • Enamel protects teeth from painful temperatures and chemicals, as well as from damage caused by daily use. Enamel also protects teeth against cavities and decay, which may lead to abscesses or infections if left untreated. Dentists determine enamel's integrity during checkups to prevent the escalation of enamel erosion.

    Enamel Erosion

    • Enamel erosion can be caused by acid wear or environmental stress on teeth. Acid erosion is caused by repeated exposure of the teeth to acids, such as those in soft drinks, fruit juices or citrus fruits, stomach acid caused by acid reflux or other gastrointestinal disorders or an insufficient amount of saliva, which dilutes acid and coats the teeth in calcium and other minerals. Environmental stressors include jaw-clenching, teeth-grinding, improper brushing or flossing and biting hard objects, such as fingernails. Symptoms of erosion vary by severity and include discoloration of the teeth, sensitivity or pain in affected teeth or indentations that appear on the surface of teeth.

    Can Enamel Be Regenerated?

    • The body cannot restore lost tooth enamel, because enamel has no living cells. Enamel can be strengthened through remineralization with fluoride, an ingredient in many brands of toothpaste and mouthwash; fluoride prevents tooth decay and may reverse its early damage. Once enamel has been lost, treatment varies based on the cause of the loss. For example, dentists may apply a bonding product to strengthen and improve the appearance of teeth. In cases of extensive enamel loss, dentists may cover the tooth with a crown to prevent further decay, according to WebMD.

    Prevention

    • Good oral care can help to prevent enamel erosion. Brush and floss teeth twice daily and get regular dental checkups. Limit your intake of acidic foods and beverages, such as citrus fruits, juices and soft drinks, and stay hydrated throughout the day to increase saliva production. Also, seek treatment for conditions, such as acid reflux, that expose the teeth to excess acid.

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