Tooth enamel is limited. Once lost, it cannot grow back, but it can be replaced with the right dental repair. In biomimetic dentistry, we focus on preserving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible during any cosmetic dentistry or restorative dentistry treatments. When a patient exhibits signs of enamel erosion, there is concern about the overall health of your teeth and mouth. At that point, the most important discussion is determining how to proceed to preserve good oral health.
Add a biomimetic smile makeover to your resume >>
What Causes Enamel Erosion?
The loss of tooth enamel is a big deal. Teeth that are not protected fully by natural tooth enamel are at greater risk of developing cavities, gum disease, and more. Telling your biomimetic dentist about the lifestyle factors or health conditions that could be contributing to this problem are a big part of the battle to getting ahead of enamel erosion and stopping it before your oral health suffers.
Causes of enamel erosion can include:
- Acid reflux and gastrointestinal disorders
- Low saliva production leading to dry mouth
- Medication that affects oral health
- High-starch diet
- Diet heavy in sugar consumption, particularly soft drinks
- Frequent vomiting from bulimia or alcohol addiction
- Genetics
- Teeth grinding, often due to stress
- Excessive consumption of acidic drinks
Can receding gums grow back? >>
Can Enamel Erosion Be Prevented?
If you are keeping up with preventive care and visiting your biomimetic dentist every six months, you should be able to stay ahead of any enamel erosion. Your dentist and hygienist will monitor the condition of your oral health, notice any major changes, and recognize any subtle signs of discord happening among your teeth and gums.
Efforts to prevent enamel erosion on your own can include simple things like combatting dry mouth by chewing sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production, eliminating highly acidic foods from your diet, and consulting with your general practitioner about any medications you are taking that may be causing dry mouth.
If you suffer from TMJ or any sort of teeth grinding or clenching, addressing this problem – usually in the form of a night mouth guard – can prevent enamel erosion from progressing (as well as gum recession). You can keep watch on your oral health and visit your biomimetic dentist if you are noticing any major tooth sensitivity, surface indentations on your teeth, or irregular tooth edges.
4 biomimetic dental solutions to help you love your smile >>
Why Biomimetic Dentistry Is Best for Treating Enamel Erosion
Traditional dental procedures for oral health problems are relatively well-known. But these common methods of repairing smiles are not the only options available. Biomimetic dentistry solutions restore smiles and tooth function in minimally invasive ways so that you can have a stunning, healthy smile without undergoing a great deal of dental work.
Dental sealants or dental bonding are low-impact but incredibly effective repairs that may be recommended to protect teeth from further enamel erosion and tooth decay. Plus, these restorations improv the appearance of your teeth. If you are dealing with significant amounts of enamel erosion, cosmetic dentistry is likely needed, usually in the form of porcelain veneers or dental crowns.
If you suspect enamel erosion, your biomimetic dentist will confirm your concerns and make recommendations about the best path forward. Contact Moorestown Dental Professionals in Moorestown, NJ, to make an appointment and discuss your oral health needs.
