Have you felt extra sensitivity while consuming any hot or cold foods or while brushing your gum line? Do your teeth have uneven edges or a yellowing appearance?

Advice from Your Family Dentist in Red Deer

It is quite likely that you are experiencing the early signs of dental erosion where enamel, the hard part of your tooth, is slowly wearing away. Some of the common causes for this are:

• Heavy consumption of acidic drinks, starches, and sugars
• Bruxism (grinding and/or clenching your teeth, especially while sleeping)
• Medical conditions such as acid reflux, low saliva flow, or gastrointestinal problems
• Poor oral hygiene such as excessive or inadequate brushing

According to the Canadian Dental Association (CDA), a significant number of Canadians suffer from this dental disorder. The CDA marks the month of April as the National Oral Health Month™ each year and offers valuable advice on dental erosion and other oral health concerns. At Parkland Mall Dental Centre, we believe that issues such as enamel erosion can be spotted early and treated effectively if you know what to watch out for. Read our advice on how to protect your teeth and prevent dental erosion.

The How and What of Tooth Enamel Erosion

Enamel is one of the strongest tissues in your body and acts as a strong outer layer that shields your teeth from the harmful effects of acids, plaque, and sensitivity to extreme temperatures. What’s more, it prevents tooth decay as well as several other potential dental issues. While medical science has not yet found a way to replace the lost portion of the enamel, it is possible to restore the damaged portion, if detected early.

Here are some tips on how to strengthen and restore your enamel and prevent further erosion:

• Practice good oral hygiene such as brushing and flossing your teeth at least two times a day.
• Consume sugary, starchy, or acidic foods and beverages in moderation. Avoid excessive consumption of sports drinks, citrus juices, and carbonated drinks.
• Try to select toothpaste and mouthwashes that do not contain alcohol.
• Avoid clenching your teeth or brushing too forcefully. If you suffer from teeth grinding (bruxism), often associated with headaches and jaw pain when you wake up, consult your dentist and use a proper mouth guard.
• Inform your dentist if you notice any yellowing, tooth sensitivity, tooth fracture or decay, shiny white or brown spots on your teeth, or nagging bad breath.
• Go for regular teeth cleaning and dental checkups at least twice a year

Let Your Red Deer Family Dentist Help Restore Your Tooth Enamel

The Red Deer family dentists at Parkland Mall Dental Centre can help you in the timely detection of dental erosion and restoration of tooth enamel. Our preventive dentistry practice provides numerous services including teeth cleaning, fluoride treatments, sensitivity treatments, and more. Besides catering to the dental needs of your entire family, we offer emergency care, extended office hours, and direct billing to your insurance.

Learn more about dental erosion prevention and entrust your oral health to the dentists at Parkland Mall Dental Centre. To book an appointment, call us at 403-342-1118 or contact us online. We always welcome new dental patients at our clinic!