Keep reading to learn how enamel works, whether it can grow back, and how to prevent erosion in the first place. Enamel is a thin outer shell that covers the tooth crown. This protective layer is the hardest tissue in the human body. Tooth enamel protects the teeth from the impact of daily activities such as biting, chewing, crunching and grinding.
When the enamel becomes weak, your teeth are more vulnerable to dental decay and fracturing, which can eventually result in tooth loss. One of the ways that enamel can wear away over time is due to the presence of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film comprised of bacteria, food particles and saliva.
It can accumulate between the teeth, around cavity fillings, and along the gum line. When the plaque bacteria feeds on the sugars in the food, an acid is produced. That acid gradually eats away at the healthy minerals in the enamel, creating pits on the surface of the teeth. Over time, the pits that develop in the enamel increase in size, which can lead to a tooth infection. You really can't rebuild enamel. Once enamel is gone, it's really gone.
So as an adult, enamel has almost the same structure as bone. Once you lose bone, you can't really regrow it. Sometimes it's okay to just leave it alone because your enamel is thin so there isn't much you can do about it but if it's causing you sensitivity or pain, you may need either a crown or a dental filling to cover that up.
Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0. Unfortunately, as an adult, tooth enamel can't really be restored once it's gone. It's kind of like losing a layer of bone or something; it just isn't the kind of thing that grows back. If your teeth are starting to get sensitive and you've lost a fair amount of enamel, it may be time to talk to your dentist about getting restorative work done.
So long as your teeth aren't causing you pain or bothering you, it's alright to just let your teeth be and maintain your normal dental hygiene routine. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube.
Brush and floss twice a day. Prevention is always preferable to restoration. Helpful 44 Not Helpful Brushing your teeth immediately after drinking acidic drinks, such as wine, can cause your enamel to weaken.
Wait about half an hour before brushing teeth. Helpful 18 Not Helpful 9. Try to brush after meals to prevent plaque from building up. If you can't, try chewing some sugar-free gum or washing your mouth out with water. Helpful 0 Not Helpful 3. Always consult your dentist or doctor before altering your dental routine or diet.
Helpful 25 Not Helpful Related wikiHows How to. How to. More References About This Article. Medically reviewed by:. Joseph Krajekian, DMD. Co-authors: Updated: August 10, Categories: Tooth Health.
Medical Disclaimer The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. Article Summary X To restore your tooth enamel, brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
Italiano: Riparare lo Smalto dei Denti. Deutsch: Zahnschmelz wieder aufbauen. Bahasa Indonesia: Memulihkan Email Gigi. Nederlands: Tandglazuur herstellen. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,, times. Even the dentist shattered an adjacent tooth he was trying to temp. Left me hanging, with no options explained to me. You have given me the information I sorely needed. Thank you.
More reader stories Hide reader stories. Did this article help you? Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Pauline Walker Jul 14, Austin Moon Nov 16, I liked this article and will take necessary measures to reverse this sensitivity.
Viola Simmons Apr 4, It also help me to explain the problem to my doctor without a hassle. Garret Doptis Nov 16, I'm always afraid of how unhealthy my teeth are getting, and this actually helped me quite a bit. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Shop Now. Our Mission. Contact Us. United States US English.
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