Having healthy, strong teeth isn’t just about having a glowing smile. The health of our teeth can directly impact the health of our entire body.
While a regular oral routine keeps germs and plaque at bay, what can you do to have stronger teeth? Is it even possible to strengthen your teeth, and if so, how?
If you’re looking for ways to improve your smile, start with the health and durability of your teeth. Read on to discover how to strengthen your teeth.
Why You Need Strong Teeth
On your teeth, there is a protective outer coating called enamel. The enamel is hard and acts as a barrier between your teeth and the inner parts of the tooth.
Without enamel, acidic and other harmful substances or bacteria can enter your teeth causing decay. So, you need strong teeth and enamel to prevent you from losing your teeth.
Once teeth are decayed, bacteria can enter into the bloodstream through the mouth and other parts of the body. When this happens, the body is at-risk for all kinds of infections and diseases. This is why you must have strong teeth.
How to Strengthen Your Teeth
As you age, your enamel naturally wears down, and it some cases, you cannot get it back. But there are factors that either contribute to wear or encourage enamel to stay strong.
So is it possible to strengthen your enamel and your teeth at any age? Yes, it is!
Here are some ways to make your teeth stronger.
1. Regular Brushing Habits
It’s no secret: the key to healthy teeth and gums is achieved by brushing and flossing.
However, there is a correct way to brush your teeth. Simply running a toothbrush over your teeth isn’t going to do it! And, brushing too hard wears down the enamel even faster.
Choose a soft bristle brush because you can control the force with which you brush. Brush at a 45-degree angle a couple of hours after your meals. This way, you’re not pushing more bacteria directly into your teeth.
Two minutes of brushing is recommended, followed by a thorough brushing of the tongue, which is where many bacteria harbors.
2. Foods
Choosing the right foods isn’t just good for your body, but for your teeth as well. Heavily acidic foods such as coffee, citrus, and even certain fruits destroy enamel slowly. Consuming too many of these types of foods or drinks is not good for your teeth.
Some foods can strengthen your teeth. Dairy products like yogurt, milk, or other calcium-fortified foods are great for your teeth because your teeth are bones and calcium strengthens bones. Crunchy foods like celery and carrots are also acceptable because their hard surface “cleans” your teeth.
Other meals and poultry contain vital minerals and nutrients that are needed to keep your teeth strong.
Another area to cut out or cut back on would be sugar. When sugar lingers on your teeth, plaque, and tartar from causing tooth decay. If you have a diet that’s high in processed sugars, replace it with healthier snacks or meals.
If you’re a gum chewer, use sugarless gum to help clean your teeth without all the sugar.
3. Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding occurs when your teeth rub together. This causes the enamel to wear down. Not only that, but your teeth may become flat.
If you grind your teeth, talk to your dentist about whats to prevent tooth grinding. They can recommend guards or suggest other ways that will protect your teeth from the habit of grinding.
4. See Your Dentist
Besides brushing, seeing your dentist is the first line of defense in keeping your teeth healthy. Your dentist recognizes tooth decay, cavities, or when there are medical problems with your teeth that need to be addressed.
By scheduling and keeping your regular check-up appointments, you’re able to catch dental problems and fix them before it’s too late.
5. Stop Smoking
Not only is smoking detrimental to your health but to your teeth as well. This is because smoking weakens your body and the ability to keep you healthy.
Smoking causes mouth cancer, tooth and gum disease, and a host of other oral problems. Smokers lose teeth and subject themselves to infections and diseases like periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is when the gums peel away from the tooth, causing tooth loss.
6. Choose Products Wisely
Brushing and flossing are important but don’t just choose any products. Not all oral-care products are created equal!
Look for products that are specifically designed to remineralize and strengthen your teeth. Products with fluoride, like certain brands of toothpaste, are designed to strengthen your enamel. Not only that but in some cases, they can reverse minor tooth decay.
So, when shopping for toothpaste, look for labels with fluoride or remineralizing on the box, or ask your dentist what they recommend.
7. Vitamin D
While you should get all the vitamins and minerals you need from a healthy diet, for some people it’s necessary to take a supplement for various health reasons.
Vitamin D is an essential mineral because it assists in calcium absorption. Yet, many people do not get enough in their diet.
If you suffer from many cavities, talk to your dentist about taking a vitamin D supplement. This may help your body get more calcium and curb cavities.
Getting Stronger, Healthier Teeth
Learning how to strengthen your teeth is important for your body. Once you understand why your enamel is needed, you can take these easy steps today to gain stronger, healthier teeth.
Are you interested in learning more about how to keep your teeth healthy? Our staff is ready to answer all of your questions. Contact us today!
