Reversing the Effects of Enamel Erosion with Fluoride

The enamel layer on each of your teeth is composed of dense, microscopic mineral crystal structures that give your teeth the strength and durability to bite off and grind food. Each day things like acidic foods and beverages, as well as the natural processes of the bacteria in your mouth, can slowly erode a little of these microscopic structures.

This process, known as demineralization, can slowly start to weaken your tooth enamel, making your teeth more prone to problems with tooth decay and sensitivity. Regular exposure to fluoride helps to fortify and restore the mineral structures of tooth enamel on a microscopic level. This process is known as remineralization, and both strengthens tooth enamel and reduces your chances of sensitivity and tooth decay problems.

Without sufficient fluoride exposure, enamel erosion can create microscopic channels through the enamel, exposing the sensitive dentin layer of the tooth. This often includes symptoms like sharp pain when you eat or drink something that is hot, cold, sweet or acidic.

If Dr. Alan Goral finds that your tooth sensitivity issues are connected to enamel erosion, they may start treating the problem with a basic fluoride treatment or fluoride supplements. Using a toothpaste with added fluoride will also go a long way towards strengthening your tooth enamel and reducing tooth sensitivity.

If you have tooth sensitivity issues that you believe might be linked to enamel erosion, you should call Ken Caryl Dental Center at 303-933-2273 to schedule an appointment.