What is Tooth Remineralization

1. What is Tooth Remineralization?

2. When we consider how much wear and tear our teeth go through, it becomes clear that they are one of the most durable parts of our body. The outside, enamel layer of the tooth creates a tough barrier that protects the tooth from decay.

3. Unfortunately, like all body parts, the enamel is tough, but not indestructible. The enamel can erode when bacteria and sugar increase acid levels in the mouth. Over time, the bacteria acid begins to decay the enamel. Sadly, enamel does not have the ability to regenerate since it contains no living cells. So the enamel begins to demineralize and the tooth responds by decaying.

4. How Teeth Become Remineralized? Even though enamel does not regenerate, it can remineralize. This organic process works when the saliva uses calcium and phosphate to add minerals to the surface of the tooth. However, this process does not get ahead of demineralization if we continue to consume sugary foods and beverages.

5. Ways to Remineralize Your Teeth It is possible to encourage our teeth to remineralize. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing twice a day is one of the keys to encouraging remineralization. It also helps to reduce sugar intake so the teeth have time to remineralize. When cutting down on processed foods and beverages that are loaded with sugars, you can speed up the remineralization process. Especially when you replace the sugary foods with eating healthy, whole foods that contain vitamins and minerals like calcium. These types of food include leafy greens, cheese, fish, fruits, and vegetables. It is also helpful to add a vitamin D supplement to help the body better absorb calcium. Looking at your health holistically is another way to help the remineralization process. Excessive sugar and poor nutrition will contribute to demineralization. Reducing stress in your life and inflammation in your body can also help speed up remineralization.

6. Foods that Help in Teeth Remineralization Foods that help remineralize your teeth are whole foods like grass-fed meats, wild-caught fish, eggs, organic vegetables, and healthy fats like coconut oil. Foods that contain phytic acids, like grains and legumes, can prevent the body from absorbing calcium and other necessary minerals that are needed for remineralizing teeth. If you are working to remineralize your teeth, avoid grains and legumes, along with processed foods that contain high levels of sugar.

7. Good and Effective Tooth Remineralization Products When trying to remineralize your teeth, you do not have to purchase any expensive products. Instead, the inexpensive products discussed below can help speed up remineralization. Arlington TX dentist, Mark C. Marchbanks, D.D.S recommends that effective tooth remineralization can occur when using a soft-bristled toothbrush. A soft-bristled toothbrush helps protect the enamel, while hard bristles increase the chances of damaging the enamel.

8. Good and Effective Tooth Remineralization Products You can help your body absorb calcium by taking a vitamin D supplement. Your dentist can recommend the proper dosage, but many adults take 800 IU of vitamin D3 or 3,750 IU of D2. Some people also take vitamin K2 to improve vitamin D absorption. Using a remineralizing toothpaste like SensodyneProNamel or 3M Clinpro 5000 1.1% Sodium Fluoride Anti-Cavity Toothpaste is helpful, too. Many people also swish with baking soda or coconut oil to help strengthen the enamel. To swish with baking soda, add one tablespoon of baking soda to four ounces of water. You can also swish one tablespoon of coconut oil for a minute or so each day.

9. Mark C. Marchbanks, D.D.S. 2624 Matlock Rd #100, Arlington, TX 76015 817-261-2747www.arlingtontexasdentist.net