What is enamel demineralization?
What is enamel demineralization?
Demineralization happens when there’s a shortage of mineral ions in the oral environment compared to your tooth enamel’s mineral content. The organic acids produced by plaque and bacteria eat away the enamel crystal, resulting in porous tooth enamel and cavities. Remineralization is the process of tooth enamel repair.
What is an enamel demineralization in case of caries?
with enamel demineralization summarized as a net loss of enamel mineral due to the action of either intrinsic or extrinsic acids, leading to dental caries or erosion.
What causes enamel demineralisation?
Chemical demineralization of teeth is caused by acidic attack through two primary means: dietary acid consumed through food or drink and microbial attack from bacteria present in the mouth. Published literature in this area seeks to apply chemical theory to the erosion of dental hard tissues, chiefly enamel.
What does demineralized enamel look like?
Enamel demineralization represents a superficial dissolving of the surface enamel—the glassy outer shell — of the tooth. It is the earliest stage of tooth decay (caries), and is most commonly seen on the visible “facial” surfaces of teeth as frosty white areas (so-called “white spot” lesions).
How is demineralization treated?
Consuming more calcium, vitamins, and minerals can go a long way toward stopping and reversing demineralization. Many foods are natural sources of fluoride, such as spinach, grapes, and some types of seafood. Adding these to your diet can improve your fluoride intake.
How do you prevent demineralization of teeth with braces?
Demineralization around orthodontic bands can be stopped and/or reversed by the use of commercially available fluoride products such as prescription fluoride toothpastes and professionally applied fluoride varnish.
How do you treat demineralized teeth?
6 Ways to Help Remineralize Teeth
- Increase Saliva Production. One of the most effective ways to repair tooth enamel is to maximize the amount of saliva you produce.
- Drink More Water.
- Use a Toothpaste Designed for the Job.
- Chew Sugar-Free Gum.
- Eat a Remineralization Diet.
- Dodge Acidic Drinks.
At what pH does enamel Demineralize?
Most importantly, acidic pH levels lead to demineralization. Your enamel starts to demineralize when exposed to a pH level of about 5.5. And that can cause many oral issues, including tooth sensitivity and decay.
Can you reverse demineralization?
Fortunately, demineralization can generally be stopped and even reversed. The opposite process, in which minerals are reintroduced to the body, is known as remineralization.
How do you stop demineralization?
Fluoride helps to re-mineralize teeth and prevent enamel loss. It can also strengthen teeth to make them less susceptible to cavities and demineralization in the future. Chew gum. Studies have shown that chewing sugarless gum can work to clean teeth (this does not replace brushing or flossing).
How do you fix enamel demineralization?
How do you fix decalcification after braces?
Treatment Options
- Re-Mineralization – if your demineralization is not severe, you can try a homeopathic or a fluoride-rich tooth powder when brushing.
- Microabrasion – this technique uses hydrochloric acid and pumice to remove the stains from the teeth.
- Veneers – Veneers are a custom made shell for your teeth.
