Enamel is stronger than the bones in your body. SO when it starts to chip and erode, it can be a cause for concern. It is essential that you find the reason why your enamel is turning brittle and seek treatment for it.
Causes of Brittle Teeth
There are many reasons why your teeth may become brittle. These include:
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Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing can lead to the development of plaque that can lead to enamel decay and the death of the dental pulp.
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Overbrushing: Brushing aggressively with a hard-bristled toothbrush can lead to enamel wear over time.
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Lack of Fluoride: If you are not getting enough fluoride from your diet or toothpaste, you will not be able to remineralize your enamel, leading to enamel erosion.
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Nutritional Deficiencies: Certain nutritional deficiencies like lack of minerals and vitamins, including calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D, can all lead to enamel erosion.
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Acids: Frequent vomiting due to eating disorders or sucking on lemons can all create an acidic environment in your mouth, which can lead to tooth decay. In addition, frequent consumption of sweets can also create acids that erode your enamel.
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Dry Mouth:If your salivary glands are not producing enough saliva, you will not be able to neutralize the acids from the food. This can also lead to enamel erosion over time.
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Dentinogenesis Imperfecta: This is a hereditary condition characterized by the malformation of enamel. This results in discolored teeth and possibly weaker teeth that are prone to fractures.
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Aging Teeth: As people age, the nerve and pulp nourishing the teeth shrink, resulting in a reduced amount of fluid in the enamel. The dry dental enamel is weaker. In addition, older teeth have had more exposure to acids and chewing force so they wear off over time.
Treatment for Brittle Teeth
If you have brittle teeth, Our doctors and at Lakewood Dental Arts can improve the strength of the enamel with various treatments, including:
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Getting a fluoride treatment. Fluoride supplements and gels can help remineralize your teeth.
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Dental sealants can also protect the chewing surface of your back teeth and protect them from decay and fractures.
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Veneers can be used to cover up teeth that show signs of worn enamel. This can prevent further damage to the enamel.
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Dental crowns can be used to protect a weakened tooth after a root canal procedure.
If you notice your teeth are prone to chips and fracture, you should get the health of your enamel checked. Call us today at (562) 384-1091 to schedule an appointment with us.