Can Tooth Enamel Grow Back?

Your enamel is unique – it’s the hardest substance in your body and it’s the structure that gives whiteness to your smile. Enamel protects your living teeth from acid erosion, bacterial attacks, and the forces of biting and chewing.

You may not appreciate your enamel enough, however, until it’s gone.

How You Could Lose Enamel

Your teeth are coated with a special combination of minerals which make up enamel. This means that the outer layer is not made of living cells. It forms during tooth development and what’s there when the tooth erupts is all you get.

No growing back, no healing.

What’s more, enamel loss isn’t inevitability. It’s a fact that all of our teeth take a beating over years of use.

What can you do to lessen the damage?

How to Save Your Enamel

There’s no point in not using your teeth just to spare them the wear and tear. But you can minimize the impact by making a few habit changes.

Your enamel will last longer if you can avoid the following:

• Teeth grinding or clenching
• Poor oral hygiene
• Sipping on sweet and/or acidic drinks
• Frequent snacking, especially on carbohydrates

Conversely, you can strengthen your existing enamel and restore weak spots by:

• Getting lots of fluoride in toothpastes and rinses
• Brushing and flossing daily
• Staying hydrated with water
• Using a remineralizing and/or acid-neutralizing toothpaste
• Seeing a dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups

Since it won’t grow back on its own, damaged enamel may need to be fixed with a crown or dental bonding. Get more tips on tooth preservation and restoration by scheduling a visit with the enamel experts at Marietta Dental Professionals.