It is impossible to totally avoid the dental wear and tear that comes with time. It’s a simple fact that as we age, our teeth age with us. However, there are steps that you can take to, as much as possible, preserve the strength and integrity of your teeth.
Our Glendale dentists are here to talk to you about steps that you can take to minimize your risk of experiencing dental cracks and chips. We hope that this overview will empower you to make proactive, healthy decisions for your smile.
Your dental enamel is the outermost layer of your tooth. This enamel is white, shiny, and, when it is healthy, very strong and fairly non-porous.
However, foods, drinks, and oral bacteria all weaken enamel, and leave it susceptible to fracture and infection. To help preserve your enamel, you should:
Follow your dentist’s recommendations regarding your oral hygiene—for most people this means completing semi-annual professional cleanings, and sticking to a thorough at-home oral hygiene routine.
Minimize sugars and carbohydrates—the oral bacteria that produce harmful oral acid, and cause infections, love carbohydrates and sugars. The fewer of these substances that you put into your mouth, the less oral bacteria are able to proliferate.
Treat bruxism promptly—bruxism is a condition that is characterized by a person grinding and/or clenching his or her teeth. These actions cause micro-cracks in the dental enamel, which over time can expand and cause chips and cracks. If you think you are suffering from bruxism, speak to your dentist promptly. Your dentist may prescribe you a mouth guard to wear at night, so that your enamel is protected.
These are some of the key steps that you can take in order to safeguard your smile. Want additional information? Our Glendale dentist office is here to give you the guidance that you need—just give us a call.