How to Strengthen Tooth Enamel: Your Guide to a Healthier Smile

18 October 2023

A beautiful, healthy smile begins with strong tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is the outermost layer of your teeth and serves as a protective shield against decay and damage. Unfortunately, over time, our enamel can weaken due to a number of factors including poor oral hygiene and what you eat and drink. But the good news, is that it’s never too late to take steps to strengthen your tooth enamel and improve your overall oral health. Here’s some practical ways you can look after your enamel and maintain a radiant smile for years to come!

1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

It’s not surprising, but the foundation of strong tooth enamel starts with a great oral hygiene routine. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing are essential for preserving enamel strength. Here’s how to do it right:

  • Choose the Right Toothbrush – Opt for a soft-bristle toothbrush and brush gently to avoid abrasive damage to your enamel.
  • Floss Regularly – Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth, where your toothbrush might not reach effectively.
  • Rinse with Fluoride Mouthwash – A fluoride mouthwash can provide an extra layer of protection for your enamel. Try and use one every day after brushing and flossing.
  • Replace Your Toothbrush – Change your toothbrush every 3-4 months or when the bristles begin to fray and/or fade in colour.

2 Watch Your Diet

What you eat and drink plays a significant role in the health of your tooth enamel. So, here’s some things to keep in mind:

  • Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods: Sugar feeds harmful bacteria in your mouth that produce acids, which can erode enamel. Try and cut down on things like fizzy drinks and fruit juices and your teeth will thank you for it. 
  • Choose Enamel-Friendly Foods: Incorporate enamel-strengthening foods into your diet, such as dairy products (rich in calcium), leafy greens (packed with vitamins and minerals), and crunchy fruits and vegetables that can help clean your teeth naturally.
  • Drink Plenty of Water: Water helps wash away food particles and dilutes acid in your mouth.
  • Moderation: Enjoy acidic drinks in moderation and try to always consume them as part of a meal to help neutralise the acid in your mouth.
  • Use a Straw: When it comes to acidic drinks try and use a straw to minimise contact with your teeth.

3. Chew Sugar-Free Gum

Chewing sugar-free gum can be a really simple and practical way to strengthen tooth enamel. When you chew gum, your mouth produces more saliva, which contains minerals like calcium and phosphate that help remineralise enamel. 

4. Consider Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride is a mineral that is known for its enamel-strengthening properties. Many toothpaste brands include fluoride, but for added protection, consider fluoride treatments from your dentist. These treatments can provide an even stronger shield against decay.

5. Brush Properly

We’ve already mentioned how using a soft-bristle toothbrush is essential to prevent damage to your enamel, but it’s equally as important to make sure you’re brushing correctly. Here’s some tips:

  • Angle Your Brush – Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards your gumline.
  • Gentle Pressure – Avoid aggressive brushing, which can wear down enamel and irritate your gums. Use gentle pressure and brush in circular motions.
  • Brush for Two Minutes – Spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth to ensure thorough cleaning.
  • Don’t Forget Your Tongue and Gums – Always brush your tongue and gently clean your gums to remove bacteria.

6. Wear a Mouthguard for Teeth Grinding

If you grind your teeth, especially at night, it can weaken your enamel over time. Consider wearing a mouthguard (which can be prescribed by your dentist) to protect your teeth.

7. Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol

Smoking can harm your oral health by staining your teeth and increasing the risk of gum disease. Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to a dry mouth, which reduces saliva production and can lead to enamel erosion. Limiting or quitting these habits can greatly benefit your oral health.

8. Schedule Regular Dental Check-ups

Regular dental check-ups are crucial for monitoring your oral health and catching any enamel-related issues early. Your dentist can provide professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, and personalised advice to help you maintain strong tooth enamel.

9. Stay Hydrated

We know that rinsing your mouth regularly is great for your teeth, but drinking enough water throughout the day is also essential as it means your body can produce more enamel protecting saliva. Make a habit of sipping water between meals and you’ll help keep your mouth hydrated and healthy.

Conclusion

Strengthening tooth enamel is essential for maintaining a healthy and radiant smile. By adopting these practical tips into your daily routine, you can protect your enamel and help keep your teeth stronger for longer. If you’d like to schedule a dental check-up so we can review your oral health, please contact us today on 01423 712799 or use our contact form.