Outer layer of the teeth is known as enamel which consists
of a mineral structure. This structure is what makes tooth enamel the hardest
material of the body. Here, you might find it hard to imagine that some of the
minerals are lost from the inside of enamel crystals. However, good news is
that these lost minerals are replaced with the help of a molecular process
which is known as tooth re-mineralization.
What is demineralization?
According to a study published by International Journal of
Nanomedicine (IJN), tooth enamel contains hydroxyapatite which is a combination
of calcium, phosphate and hydroxide. The process through which these minerals
are lost is known as demineralization. Demineralization happens when bacteria
living in the mouth release acids after they consume sugars in your mouth. That
acid can dissolve the minerals.
This is the reason that you need to avoid the intake of
acidic foods and beverages. If you have a habit of consuming soda and sport
drinks, you are going to have to limit this consumption to avoid any harmful
impact on your teeth.
Tooth re-mineralization
Tooth re-mineralization is the process of reversal of
demineralization. But one thing that needs to be kept into consideration about
re-mineralization is that this process tends to reverse demineralization at
very early stage. In this scenario, your saliva is the major player that
protects and repairs your tooth enamel. Since your saliva washes away leftover
food particles, it also neutralizes acidity in the mouth.
Another way saliva helps in re-mineralization is that it
contains many minerals. There is a continued process of exchange of calcium and
phosphorus ions between saliva and tooth enamel. This way, the teeth are
repaired. Saliva also contains fluoride ions that prevent demineralization and
boost the process of re-mineralization.
How to boost the process of re-mineralization
The combination of fluoride, calcium and phosphate ions make
the tooth enamel stronger and resilient. This is the reason that dentists all
around the world recommend the use of fluoride toothpaste. You can consider
getting fluoride through topical treatments which you can get at dental offices
as well as at home.
Many of the dental filling materials contain amorphous
calcium phosphate (ACP). It is a material that helps in the restoration of
tooth enamel by releasing calcium and phosphate ions.
Steps you need to take at home
Besides flossing and brushing your teeth with fluoride
toothpaste, you are going to have to consider adapting to some lifestyle
changes if you want your teeth to remain stronger for the bigger portion of
your life. Those steps involve the following.
- Put a limit on the consumption of sweets.
- Make sure that you are getting a healthy diet consisting of fruits, proteins and vegetables.
- Consider increasing the amount of cheese in your daily diet.
- Limit snacking between the meals.
- Choose the foods which are rich in vitamin C and phosphorus.
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