Build-up your dental enamel
Even though your dental enamel is harder than your bones it can begin to visibly wear with age.
Never fear, there are several ways you can help strengthen and improve the longevity of your tooth enamel.
Firstly, try to boost your saliva production. Saliva plays a massive part in protecting your teeth as it washes away harmful bacteria and brings high levels of calcium into your mouth.
If you suffer from a frequently dry mouth, sometimes caused by medications, illness, or just being prone to it, it means you are producing less saliva which results in your teeth being exposed to a greater risk of decay.
So bolster your saliva production by chewing sugar-free gum. It not only cleans your mouth but it can help prevent cavities and harden enamel.
Secondly, make sure your teeth are getting an adequate amount of fluoride. Fluoride also makes teeth strong and enhances saliva’s decay fighting properties.
Generally people get adequate fluoride exposure through drinking fluoridated water and brushing with fluoride toothpaste but for those of you that don’t, because you may suffer from dry mouth (that again!) or drink a lot of unfluoridated bottled water, consult your dentist about having fluoride treatments like sealant applied to your teeth. You could also try buying fluoride rinses from your local shop.
Another handy tip to protect your enamel is to rinse your mouth after eating by drinking or swilling it with water.
Acidic and sugary foods and fruits like citrus fruits and dark drinks are the worst for tooth enamel so drink water to wash away any harmful residues left on teeth after you have enjoyed your favourite snacks.
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