How to Make Your Teeth Stronger

There are several different things you can do throughout the day to enjoy better dental health besides just brushing and flossing your teeth. In fact, with the limited time most people actually spend brushing and flossing, what you do throughout the rest of the day might be an even bigger influence. Fortunately, you don’t have to go to great lengths to keep your smile strong and healthy. With good hygiene and knowledge of how your teeth interact with your food, you can make your teeth stronger and healthier without having to make any drastic changes.

What to Eat

You might already know that sticking to foods and beverages with limited amounts of sugar can help you reduce your risks of cavities. Yet, did you know that the more you eat of certain types of food, the stronger your teeth will become. The enamel and dentin that make up the outer and main layers of your teeth (respectively) rely on minerals and nutrients to maintain their strength. For instance, eating plenty of calcium and phosphate can fuel your teeth to form more resilient enamel, reducing your risks of bacterial tooth infection (tooth decay) or dental damage.

What to Do

Though your diet is important, the main staples of better dental health are brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice every day. When you do, be sure to brush every surface of every tooth to thoroughly remove plaque, food particles, and harmful bacteria deposits that could weaken your teeth. Also, be sure to attend a checkup and cleaning appointment at least once every six months, or more often if Dr. Engelberg recommends it.

What to NOT Do

When you do brush your teeth, take care not to scrub too harshly. Otherwise, you may risks scrubbing the protective enamel off of your teeth, leaving them more vulnerable to damage and bacterial attacks. Also, do not brush your teeth immediately after eating; the acids that oral bacteria produce when you eat can leave enamel especially weak, and you should wait at least 20-30 minutes after eating before you brush and floss.

ABOUT YOUR GARY, IN DENTIST:

As a native of northwest Indiana, Nicholas Cain, DDS, is dedicated to providing excellent general, preventive, and family dentistry services to the community that raised him. To schedule your appointment, call Healthy Smiles today at 219-938-2637.