Tooth enamel is the outer shell of the crown part of the tooth, which protects the crowns from the aggressive effects of microbes, bacteria, temperature changes and other negative factors. The thicker and stronger the tooth enamel, the more reliable the protection.
Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, which is explained by a high degree of mineralization: with a water content of 3%, the proportion of inorganics reaches 97%. In different areas where the dental crown is located, the enamel has a certain thickness - on the sides of the teeth the enamel is thicker, on the chewing side it is slightly thinner, and the thinnest coating is located at the gingival edge.
Over time, the thin enamel layer of the tooth wears off (the process is especially accelerated with insufficient oral hygiene), chips and cracks form on the enamel, tooth sensitivity increases, patients react sharply to hot and cold, sweet and sour. At the same time, the enamel is not able to recover on its own, and if you do not react in time, the situation can end catastrophically for the tooth - it will begin to decay. Restoration and restoration of teeth will become necessary.
Why teeth and enamel are destroyed - possible reasons
The tendency to carious processes may be due to genetic prerequisites, disruptions in the endocrine system, disruptions in the gastrointestinal tract and other internal factors. But these are not all possible reasons that provoke the rapid destruction of enamel and even dentin. The following phenomena contribute to pathological processes:
- heavy plaque, supra- and subgingival deposits as a result of insufficient and irregular hygiene, violation of teeth brushing technique,
- caries and non-carious lesions,
- malocclusion and, as a result, pathological abrasion,
- unbalanced diet, namely abuse of sweet and carbohydrate foods, foods high in acids,
- sudden temperature changes in food and drinks,
- frequent drinking and smoking,
- mechanical damage,
- long-term drug therapy.
There are many factors that affect the condition of teeth.
Does enamel often weaken due to sudden hormonal changes?
for example, during pregnancy. During this period, it is extremely important for expectant mothers to pay close attention to the health of their teeth and gums, ensure a constant supply of beneficial vitamins and microelements to the body, maintain hygiene and not skip visits to the dentist for preventative measures.
Is it possible to completely restore enamel on your own?
Contrary to the fact that many want to see a positive answer in this section, there will not be one. If the coating began to deteriorate, then there were contributing factors, which do not always depend on whether the person cracked nuts with his teeth or not. You can only partially slow down this process before you can visit the dentist’s office and take drastic measures.
For protection, doctors offer the thinnest veneers. They are not felt in the mouth, do not bring the slightest discomfort, but at the same time, ceramics prevent microorganisms from reaching the protective shell and penetrating deep into the crown. In addition, the doctor can coat the dental plates with a fluoridating or remineralizing composition, which will prevent destruction for a long time. Therefore, to the question: how and whether it is possible to restore enamel on teeth at all, the answer will only be denial.
When is it time to start strengthening your teeth and gums?
Maintaining oral health is necessary throughout life, and care must begin from a very early age, and in many ways this is the responsibility of parents. But there are situations that literally leave no choice. In such cases, additional measures cannot be avoided to prevent complete destruction or loss of teeth. The following are the main indications for strengthening teeth and gums:
- the smile has noticeably turned yellow, a plaque has appeared,
- discomfort or even pain occurs when eating,
- enamel reacts sharply to mechanical stimuli, temperature changes in food, sour, salty and sweet - the main signs of hyperesthesia,
- crowns are visible along the cutting edge line,
- visible defects appeared: chips, scratches and microcracks,
- all signs of carious processes are present.
A sharp reaction of teeth to cold and sweet foods may be an indicator of their strengthening.
Procedures aimed at restoring and strengthening the hard tissues of the oral cavity are also prescribed as part of the complex treatment of a wide variety of dental diseases. These include inflammatory diseases of the gums and periodontal tissues (gingivitis, periodontitis and periodontal disease as its complication), and neoplasms in the thickness of the mucous membrane, and many other pathological conditions that require full attention.
Signs in the presence of which you need to think about strengthening
You should ask a qualified dentist how to strengthen your teeth if:
- the enamel has acquired an unsightly yellow or gray tint, which is why the smile begins to look less aesthetically pleasing than before;
- when eating sour, sweet, or spicy foods, sharp dental pain periodically appears;
- the coronal part has become transparent in the area of the cutting edge;
- pain occurs when biting and chewing hard foods;
- chips and cracks appeared;
- rapidly progressing caries developed.
In all these cases, you need to make an appointment with a dentist as soon as possible. The doctor will conduct a simple diagnosis and determine what caused the problem, and select medications that will improve the condition of the enamel.
Foods that are good for enamel and gums
One of the main conditions for oral health is proper nutrition. It is important to diversify your daily diet with foods rich in healthy vitamins, minerals and other micronutrients. As for strengthening enamel, experts strongly recommend the following products:
- seafood is the main source of fluoride,
- dairy products high in calcium,
- nuts, in particular pine nuts, almonds, cashews,
- kiwi with a high content of vitamin C - unlike many citrus fruits, kiwi is less chemically irritating to the enamel, but saturates it with beneficial vitamins,
- fresh greens as another powerful source of vitamin C, which also helps strengthen the oral mucosa,
- raw fruits and vegetables - at the moment of biting into the fruit, a natural cleansing of bacterial plaque occurs. In addition, these products are rich in beneficial vitamins and microelements,
- Honey is a natural antiseptic and a source of a huge amount of vitamins and minerals necessary for the body.
Proper nutrition is an important condition for oral health.
It is equally important to give up bad habits such as smoking and frequent consumption of alcoholic beverages. It is better to limit sugary sodas and sour foods. To keep your teeth intact and healthy for as long as possible, it is recommended to give up the habit of gnawing on seeds and nuts.
What will help strengthen the enamel?
- Professional oral hygiene. It will not only get rid of tartar and deposits, but also significantly reduce microbial activity in the mouth.
- Enamel remineralization or fluoridation. The enamel will receive additional nutrition, which will strengthen its structure.
- Taking multivitamins and calcium, a balanced diet.
- Hormonal therapy.
Oral hygiene rules - recommendations from experts
To strengthen the hard and soft tissues of the oral cavity, it is important to ensure a high level of hygiene. Preventive measures should be mainly aimed at combating thinning and hyperesthesia, mobility of elements and inflammation of periodontal tissues.
Thus, regularity in daily cleaning is not the only condition for maintaining health. It is equally important to perform the procedure correctly and use the correct brush and paste for this. It is better to consult your dentist on this matter, since only a doctor will be able to give an accurate assessment of the current state of the oral tissues, and therefore choose the right direction in prevention.
Proper dental hygiene is important to maintain your smile.
As additional measures, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory rinses, soothing and strengthening gels for gums, the use of floss after meals and an irrigator as part of daily hygiene are often recommended. Once every six months, you must visit a dentist for a preventive examination and a hygienist for a comprehensive professional examination. hygiene: removing plaque, supra- and subgingival deposits, mineralization of hard tissues and strengthening gums.
What to do to strengthen enamel
Once the cause of the disease is determined, the doctor prescribes treatment. If the cause of tooth decay is untreated caries or mechanical damage, then the issue can be solved with the help of prosthetics. If the problem is a lack of vitamins or changes in hormonal levels, then specialized specialists will be involved in the treatment process.
Procedures to strengthen enamel in dentistry
In dentistry, special concentrated formulations with a high mineral content are used for this purpose. As part of complex treatment and recovery, special fluoridated toothpastes are often prescribed, recommendations are given regarding the permissible hardness of a toothbrush and adherence to a certain diet. Popular procedures aimed at increasing the density and strength of enamel are described below.
Remineralization procedure
An integral and very first stage is prof. hygiene – this procedure involves removing plaque and subgingival deposits, as well as strengthening the gums and hard tissues. For the latter, fluoridation and remineralization are required - this can be a one-time procedure or a course of 3-4 sessions, depending on the condition of the enamel. Compositions saturated with calcium, fluoride and other beneficial substances are applied to the surface of the teeth. Remineralization can be prescribed for both adults and children from 6 years of age - according to indications.
How is fluoridation carried out?
This procedure is often carried out simultaneously with remineralization, since fluoride promotes better absorption of calcium. In this case, it is assumed that hard tissues will be treated with special fluorine-containing compounds that nourish the enamel and saturate it with the mineral necessary for strengthening. In regions where there is a deficiency of fluoride compounds in tap water, this procedure is especially necessary.
Fluoridation will help strengthen tooth enamel
“After whitening, my enamel became very sensitive. It happened that I was brought to tears if I took a sip of hot tea. I couldn’t stand it then and, on the advice of a friend, went to her dentist. He immediately told me that, apparently, they had gone too far, and now the teeth need to be restored. He prescribed special rinses and performed fluoridation. Soon it all went away, but I definitely won’t dare to bleach again...”
MargoFil, from correspondence on the woman.ru forum
As a preventative measure, fluoridation is carried out every six months. If necessary, the procedure is repeated more often. There is a simplified home version - surface fluoridation without filling the tubules. It can be carried out every month, and special gentle compositions are used for this.
Treatment and prosthetics
To treat pathological conditions that have led to a weakening of the enamel layer, along with fluoridation and remineralization procedures, special gels, pastes and rinses are prescribed. If you have specific symptoms, it is not recommended to choose such remedies on your own; you should definitely consult your dentist about this.
In some cases, not only restoration is required, but also covering the resulting defects. Such measures are necessary when there is a risk of damage to the dentin of the incisors or molars. To do this, they resort to composite building using the direct method (artistic restoration), to the installation of veneers or lumineers. In the most advanced cases, it is necessary to grind down the living tooth and install a crown.
You can strengthen your teeth with veneers
Signs of damaged enamel
The main symptom that indicates the thinning of the tooth surface is its high sensitivity. If microcracks appear, pain occurs when eating hot or cold dishes, drinks, or sweet foods. Discomfort may occur during hygiene procedures.
Also a sign of weakening of the enamel is a change in the color of the teeth. This is explained by the fact that when the upper layer of teeth becomes thinner, dentin, the inner tissue of the tooth, which has a yellowish or grayish tint, begins to show through. The smoothness of the teeth is lost, they become uneven and rough.
Review of gels with remineralization effect for home use
Today, pharmacies have special gels in their assortment - to strengthen teeth, gums, get rid of hyperesthesia, inflammation and bleeding. It is better to start using such products after consulting with your dentist. Below is an overview of popular products for strengthening enamel and gums.
Gel ROCS Medical Minerals
A product with a remineralizing effect. Helps nourish the protective layer of dental tissues, saturating it with phosphorus, calcium and magnesium ions. After application to the enamel, it forms a kind of protective coating that prevents the negative effects of external aggressive factors. Xylitol in the composition normalizes the balance of microflora in the oral cavity. There is also a product designed specifically for use in children. The gel does not contain fluoride and is approved for use immediately after the appearance of primary incisors.
The cost of a 45 g tube will be about 400-450 rubles.
LACALUT fluor Gel
Regarding what else can be used to strengthen the enamel, many experts agree on the high effectiveness of LACALUT fluor Gel. The product contains sodium fluoride and amino fluoride. The combination of these substances promotes the formation of a protective layer on the surface of the crowns, stimulates restoration processes in the presence of chips and microcracks, as well as signs of pathological abrasion. Effectively fights hyperesthesia and also removes bacteria and plaque.
Price for a volume of 30 ml – 300-350 rubles.
GC Tooth Mousse
The mousse contains beneficial minerals and casein. By reacting with saliva, the active components are activated, forming a protective film on the surface of the enamel. It is not recommended to wash off the product for at least 7-10 minutes after application. The drug helps compact the surface layer and at the same time provides an excellent antiseptic effect. Recommended for use in combination with gum products of the same brand.
The approximate cost of the product (35 ml) is 1300-2000 rubles.
Protefix dental gel
According to the manufacturer, the product has a complex effect, promotes the restoration and saturation of the soft tissues of the oral cavity. The active components of the gel stimulate the regenerative properties of living tissues, effectively relieve inflammation and disinfect. Recommended for use if there are signs of inflammation in the gums.
Approximate price for 10 ml – 220-250 rubles.
Gel "Apident Active"
The domestically produced drug is not inferior in quality to its foreign analogues. It contains only natural plant ingredients, in particular propolis, bee venom, extracts of calendula, yarrow, sage, chamomile and fir. The product has a pronounced bactericidal effect on mucosal tissue, promotes their restoration and strengthening at the cellular level.
The cost of gel in a volume of 30 g will be about 200-250 rubles.
Dental prevention in children
Healthy teeth are an integral part of a child’s carefree childhood. Proper care, absence of caries and other diseases guarantees oral health. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out timely dental prophylaxis in children.
What can happen to children's teeth?
Children can be classified as a special group of patients. In pediatric dentistry they are always at risk. After all, their body is just learning to work. All protective mechanisms are not yet perfect, and the immune system reacts quite violently to aggressive external influences.
The following factors will contribute to the even greater development of caries, as well as its spread and complications: thin enamel, imperfect immunity, only partial mineralization of teeth, and the anatomical and physiological characteristics of the child.
Caries is one of the sources of chronic infections. It can be the cause of many somatic pathologies. Such as diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, kidney diseases, etc. And caries can also cause complications and even threaten the health of children, not to mention various malocclusion pathologies.
Malocclusion can cause children to become isolated in society, withdrawn, and perform poorly at school. Everything in our body is certainly interconnected. Therefore, it is important to start oral hygiene in children on time and visit the dentist on time.
Caries and malocclusion are some of the consequences of poor dental care
It is possible to prevent caries in a child already during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
At the planning stage of pregnancy, a woman needs to ensure that her body is filled with the necessary vitamins and microelements for the full development of the child. Carry out a complete sanitation of the oral cavity, because caries is a breeding ground for infections, and the formation of organs, including teeth, occurs already in the seventh week of pregnancy. And already at the end of the first half, the baby’s teeth begin to materialize.
Doctors also recommend taking tablets that contain only 1 mg of fluoride. This allows you to achieve two effects at once: the fetus develops strong teeth, and the woman does not wash out fluoride from the body, which ensures that health is maintained at the proper level. Also, do not forget about calcium, which both the unborn child and the mother herself need.
Another important factor in the formation of healthy teeth in a baby is the mother’s regular visits to the dental office. The child takes all the missing “building materials” for his body from the woman’s reserves. And this, in turn, can lead to a lack of vitamins and microelements, and therefore can cause caries, its complications and other diseases of the oral cavity.
A balanced diet will help stop the occurrence of caries and other diseases.
When preventing caries of primary teeth in children, it is important to provide adequate nutrition. Your child's diet should include calcium from dairy products. For better absorption of calcium, vitamin D is also necessary, which can be obtained from fish or exposure to sunlight. Therefore, take your child for walks in the fresh air more often - this helps strengthen the child’s teeth and immunity.
As your child grows, adjust his diet. Dentists recommend excluding some dishes altogether, while adding others, on the contrary. Here are some foods that are considered harmful not only to a child’s teeth, but also to an adult’s:
- Any chocolate products;
- sweets, pastries and cakes;
- fruits with high acidity;
- sweet carbonated drinks;
- concentrated juices, as well as homemade compote, due to their high sugar content.
These products also harm the gastrointestinal tract, causing an imbalance in the acid-base balance. But they can be replaced with more useful ones to avoid dental problems:
- Green tea. It contains natural antioxidants, which slows down the process of caries formation;
- lime. Even though it's citrus. It is rich in fluoride and calcium;
- carrot. This vegetable is rich in vitamins, and its dense structure allows you to cleanse your teeth of plaque.
Dentists also have their own opinion about snacks between main meals. They carry a fairly large factor in the development of caries in children, because they do not allow the acid balance to be restored. Therefore, give preference to solid foods such as apples, carrots, and pears. They do the best job of removing plaque that forms on teeth throughout the day.
It is necessary to practice oral hygiene when a child’s first tooth appears.
It is advisable for the baby to wipe his teeth with a soft cloth or gauze after eating and before going to bed in the direction: from the edge of the gums to the surface of the teeth. As the child gets used to this procedure, a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head should be used. To prevent baby teeth, it is also recommended to use special wipes with xylitol, which provide protection against microbes.
Dentists also recommend using toothpastes containing fluoride. Such pastes are especially necessary for children with an increased risk of caries. Until the age of 12, parents must supervise the cleaning process. You should not allow your child to swallow fluoride toothpaste. As your baby gets older, you can choose toothpaste with a higher concentration of fluoride.
Always pay attention to the composition of the toothpaste, its quality and purpose. Give preference to those that contain calcium, fluorine, phosphorus to strengthen the enamel, and also correspond to the child’s age.
The next step on the path to healthy teeth is brushing.
It is very important to instill in your child the habit of brushing their teeth every day. This way he realizes the importance of hygiene much earlier. And he will learn to take responsibility for his dental health.
To make the brushing process enjoyable, you need to choose the right toothbrush. At a young age, it is better to give preference to soft bristles so as not to damage the delicate mucous membrane of the gums. They are usually sold in stores labeled “soft”. As you get older, you can switch to medium-hard toothbrushes. They will provide a more thorough cleaning of plaque. Brushes are labeled “medium”.
Only with the help of toothpaste and a brush can you achieve almost complete cleansing of stuck food and plaque. But there is one more important point! Brushes need to be changed promptly, approximately once every three months. With prolonged use, bacteria remain and multiply on the bristles, making the cleaning process less effective.
Take your child to the dental office at least three times a year.
Prevention in pediatric dentistry is not complete without an experienced specialist. Therefore, make it a rule to see a dentist. Only through a professional examination can the development of caries and other oral diseases be detected and prevented in the early stages. If your child does develop early caries, he will promptly carry out all the necessary tests and prescribe treatment. Most often, the following procedures are recommended for children.
- Fluoridation
The doctor coats the child’s teeth with a special innovative composition. It saturates the enamel with all the necessary microelements. Thanks to this procedure, the teeth will become more resistant to aggressive external influences.
- Fissure sealing
This method of treatment and prevention is done both for preschool children with baby teeth and for teenagers. It is advisable to do this procedure within a month or a month and a half from the moment the first molars appear. The doctor closes the deep grooves on the chewing surface of the tooth. Thus, it is possible to eliminate the accumulation of pathogenic bacteria in hard-to-reach places. To do this, experts use fluoropolymer sealant that is resistant to saliva, liquids and acids.
Fissure sealing is one of the necessary methods of prevention
At the first stage, the dentist thoroughly cleans the teeth using a professional brush and toothpaste. Then he applies an acidic substance to the grooves of the pits that have formed on the surface of the tooth. After this, a sealant is applied to the tooth, which is distributed by flowing into the micropores of the enamel and hardens firmly under the influence of a special lamp. This sealant not only “seals” the tooth, but also saturates its enamel with magnesium, calcium and fluoride.
As a result of this procedure, after eating, plaque and bacteria will not accumulate on the chewing surface, which destroy the child’s healthy enamel.
Pharmacy medications will also help improve dental health.
Our diet does not always have enough necessary substances and minerals. Therefore, in pediatric dentistry, doctors recommend receiving all the necessary vitamins in concentrated and dosed form. Today on the shelves of pharmacies you can find many different mineral complexes and vitamins. They are divided into different categories: according to composition, age, indication for use, etc.
To maintain dental health, dentists recommend choosing vitamins with high concentrations of calcium, phosphorus and fluorides. Be sure to consult your doctor before purchasing and using any vitamin complex.
Proper brushing techniques will help keep your teeth healthy.
Brushing teeth for children is not much different from for adults. When cleaning the inner and outer surfaces of teeth, the brush should be positioned at an angle of 45 degrees to the tooth. Perform sweeping movements from the gum to the edge of the tooth. This will thoroughly clean the oral cavity of food debris and plaque. Then, when brushing the chewing surface, position the toothbrush horizontally and move it in a circular motion across the entire dentition, top and bottom.
If you are still not sure how to brush your teeth properly, watch instructional videos. This will make the task much easier.
Brushing children's baby teeth for 2-3 minutes is sufficient. However, this is the norm for an adult. So please be patient while cleaning. If it is difficult for your child to withstand such a procedure, try to turn cleaning into a game, because simple persuasion, as practice shows, does not always help.
Already during the first brushing of teeth, tell your child how useful this procedure is for him. If the child’s fear and reluctance do not go away, then you can watch special educational and preventive pictures that are specially created for children. The sooner you start brushing your teeth with your child, the sooner he will begin to do it on his own. And even more quickly brushing teeth will become a daily habit.
Don’t forget about general hygiene procedures.
High-quality cleaning of the tooth surface and interdental space is unthinkable without additional hygiene, which you need to know about. To do this you need:
- After every meal, rinse your mouth. It is advisable to use special antiseptic solutions for this, which can be found in any pharmacy, or products containing useful microelements. But if for some reason it is not possible to use such products, then ordinary water will do;
- use floss and dental floss. They help clean the spaces between teeth more thoroughly. Such threads are round and flat. It is advisable for children to choose flat flosses in order to avoid wounds on the gums. It is necessary to floss in the presence of an adult, otherwise the child may harm his teeth;
- buy an irrigator. This device is designed for high-quality teeth cleaning at a professional level. Doctors use this not only in pediatric dentistry, but also in adult dentistry. But you can also use it at home if you familiarize yourself with its effects in advance. Here is the main purpose of the irrigator:
- It provides the most effective oral hygiene at home;
- helps prevent the development of other diseases such as periodontitis and gingivitis;
- Suitable for cleaning not only the surface of teeth, but also various artificial structures. It is especially recommended to use this cleaning method when your child has braces or platins;
- prevents the active proliferation of bacteria, and as a result stops carious formations;
- increases blood microcirculation in the gums. The principle of operation of the irrigator is similar to therapeutic massage;
- has a positive effect on the proper functioning of the salivary glands, which again has a beneficial effect on the condition and health of the oral cavity.
Remember that the best treatment in childhood is prevention.
Which vitamin complex to choose?
At the present time, it is quite difficult to ensure an uninterrupted supply of vitamins and micronutrients in sufficient quantities through nutrition alone. To maintain immunity and prevent any pathological processes in the body, you have to periodically take a course of vitamins. To do this, you should choose only high-quality and proven complexes. According to expert reviews, the following two drugs, described below, have worked well.
Complex "Calcium D3 Nycomed"
The drug contains bioavailable calcium and vitamin D3 - cholecalciferol. These substances are virtually indispensable for the formation of healthy bone tissue and, accordingly, tooth enamel. The product ensures the formation of a kind of membrane that stimulates cell regeneration and renewal. The complex ensures mineralization of dental tissues from the inside, helps restore gums, nourish them and increase elasticity. Recommended for periodic use from the age of 5 in the dosages specified in the instructions.
The cost of packaging (60 pcs.) is 330-350 rubles.
Vitamins "Centrum Silver"
The multivitamin complex offers a whole range of macro- and microelements beneficial to the body with high digestibility rates. These include substances such as betacarotene, retinol, colecalciferol, ascorbic and folic acids, B vitamins, biotin and other elements important for health. The drug helps restore mineral metabolism in the body, including strengthening hard tissues and the oral mucosa.
Approximate price (30 pcs.) – 500-550 rubles.
Review of strengthening toothpastes
In some cases, experts recommend using strengthening pastes. They are offered as maintenance therapy or prevention of caries and other pathological conditions related to enamel health. The products presented below have proven themselves excellent in this regard.
LACALUT Aktiv and Sensitive
A popular brand of quality oral care products. Thanks to the wide range, everyone can find a suitable product for themselves. Pastes from the Aktiv and Sensitive series contain aluminum lactate, which stimulates the restoration and strengthening of hard tissues. These products are classified as preventative, but the company also produces a wide range of medicinal pastes designed for different clinical cases.
Approximate cost (75 ml): Aktiv – 200 rubles, Sensitive – 220 rubles.
Silca, Herbal Complete paste
The product is focused on restoring gum tissue and supporting enamel health. An excellent option for high-quality caries prevention (due to the combination of sodium fluoride and urea), as well as for those who suffer from hyperesthesia. The active components of the paste reduce sensitivity and provide surface remineralization. It contains natural extracts of calendula, chamomile, sage, yarrow, as well as vitamin E, which has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect.
The price of a 100 ml tube is 100 rubles.
SPLAT "Lavandasept"
Preventive paste with natural ingredients: essential oils of lavender, thyme and rosemary. The product has excellent antiseptic properties and provides good prevention of caries and inflammatory gum diseases. After its use, a thin protective film is formed on the teeth, preventing the intense formation of bacterial plaque.
The cost of 100 ml will be approximately 150 rubles.
How to brush your child's teeth?
Children's toothpaste is not just toothpaste in bright children's packaging, as some parents think. The paste becomes “childish” primarily due to its special composition . The pleasant taste also plays a role, making the process of brushing teeth more attractive (show us a child who will be happy to brush his teeth the first time?).
Like toothpastes for adults, children's toothpastes should clean teeth well, but do it carefully, without damaging the enamel. For this purpose, they contain very soft abrasive particles .
It is important that the paste has a preventive effect , which is achieved by introducing fluorine, phosphorus and calcium compounds into its . These elements are able to integrate into the crystal lattice of tooth enamel and strengthen it. Among them, fluorine is the most important element. Please note: the amount of fluoride clearly “tied” to the age of the child , and the “age of use” is always clearly marked on the paste tubes.
Pastes for children “up to 6 years old” or “4-7 years old” contain the minimum percentage of fluorides (according to GOST - 500 ppmF).
Pastes for children “from 6 years old” (or “6+”) or “from 8 to 18”, “for schoolchildren”, etc. — the amount of fluorine almost triples (up to 1500 ppmF). rule : the older children become, the more noticeable the amount of fluorides in toothpastes produced for them approaches “adult levels.”
Parents of children with allergies should look for a hypoallergenic toothpaste that does not contain artificial colors, preservatives or fragrances. Too bright, unnatural color and a very strong aroma of the paste should alert the mother, especially if she chooses the paste “for the first time.”
Traditional medicine tips
To prevent caries and non-carious lesions, you can from time to time resort to traditional medicine. But before you try another recipe on yourself, it is better to consult a dentist and rule out possible contraindications. The most effective and safest tips are described below.
Saline solution
Mix one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, then rinse your mouth thoroughly with the resulting solution. The product has a pronounced antiseptic effect, helps to relieve acute inflammation and reduce pain in pathological conditions.
Oak bark decoction
An effective remedy for restoring gums is prepared using oak bark - it can be purchased at any nearest pharmacy. It is advisable to add linden blossom to the crushed bark in a ratio of 1 to 1. Pour a teaspoon of the mixture with a glass of boiling water and leave for about an hour. After this time, the broth should be filtered and used for its intended purpose up to three times a day.
Gargling with a decoction of oak bark will help in treatment
Propolis tincture
For preventive purposes, you can use an aqueous solution of propolis tincture - for rinsing and applying to the brush. Propolis balls are perfect as medicinal chewing gum. The product has a pronounced bactericidal effect, helps reduce the activity of pathogenic microorganisms and restore the balance of microflora.
The photo shows propolis balls
Beeswax gum
To prepare this product, mix honey, beeswax, lemon juice and peppermint oil in a glass container in a water bath. Next, you need to let the resulting mixture cool until it hardens a little. Then the chewing gum should be cut into small pieces and used for its intended purpose several times a day. An additional effect is pleasant fresh breath.
Medicinal salad recipe
First you need to soak the seaweed in warm water and squeeze it out a little. Next, add basil seasoning and chopped sage. The salad should be chewed thoroughly for 15 minutes, and then it can be swallowed or spat out. This is a great alternative to cleansing after eating or consuming highly acidic foods.
Seaweed is a great alternative to brushing your teeth
What do doctors think about home remedies for strengthening teeth?
Dentists have always been approving of home methods for preventing thinning enamel and gum inflammation, but only if they take a reasonable approach. Before starting any manipulations, you need to visit a doctor and make sure that you do not have any pathological phenomena that require professional help. Otherwise, you risk aggravating the situation with your own hands and leading to the development of even more serious complications.
To strengthen your teeth and gums, it is important to follow the recommendations of your dentist, maintain hygiene, use toothpastes, gels and rinses prescribed by a specialist, eat right and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. But it is better to give up alcohol and tobacco forever. Maintaining the balance of oral microflora and the health of the body as a whole is the main condition for strong teeth and a beautiful, healthy smile.
What does tooth enamel consist of?
Strong tooth enamel consists of 96% inorganic substances, 2-3% water and only 1% organic substances. This extremely complex composition protects all elements of the tooth. Even slight destruction of enamel inevitably leads to the appearance of caries.
The density and mineralization of the tooth surface is also not the same: the most vulnerable part of the crown is the part near the gums, the most protected is the chewing surface. The strength and permeability of enamel decreases with age, however, its surface deteriorates unevenly. First, the enamel on the lateral incisors wears off, then the enamel on the chewing teeth and the front row begins to wear off.
