Dr. Leonard Hess, of Union County Center for Comprehensive Dentistry in Monroe, NC, is an experienced family dentist who is dedicated to helping patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. Dr. Hess works closely with each patient to address their dental concerns and determine which treatment is right for their individual needs. One of the most common dental concerns is tooth enamel erosion, which, once it has occurred, can not be reversed. However, with proper tooth care and oral hygiene, tooth enamel erosion can be prevented. If you have already experienced tooth enamel erosion, Dr. Hess offers an assortment of cosmetic and restorative dental treatments to improve the aesthetic and function of your smile.
Everything You Need to Know About Tooth Enamel
Q: What is tooth enamel?
A: Tooth enamel is the hard, outer layer of the tooth and is, in fact, one of the hardest substances in the body. Once the tooth enamel has been damaged, it can not be restored naturally. It is necessary to take care of your tooth enamel to prevent the need for complex dental treatments to repair it.
Q: What causes tooth enamel erosion?
A: Various factors can cause your tooth enamel to erode over time, such as acids found in some foods and drinks, side effects caused by medications, genetic factors, dry mouth, acid reflux, and bruxism (tooth grinding).
Q: What are the signs of tooth enamel erosion?
A: It is important to be aware of the signs of tooth enamel erosion so you can schedule an appointment to visit Dr. Hess. He will work with you to determine the best course of action. The following are common signs of tooth enamel erosion:
- Tooth Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common results of tooth enamel erosion. Tooth sensitivity can make eating and drinking uncomfortable. Your teeth may even hurt when being exposed to different temperatures.
- Tooth decay: As your enamel weakens, your teeth become more susceptible to cavities.
- Uneven teeth: When tooth enamel weakens over time, it can begin to chip and crack more easily.
- Tooth discoloration: As the enamel weakens, it can lead to yellow or shiny, spotted teeth.
Q: How can I prevent tooth enamel erosion?
A: Tooth enamel erosion can weaken your teeth over time, leaving your teeth more prone to develop complex dental problems. To prevent this problem, t is imperative that you take preventive measures such as:
- Incorporating drinking water into your routine. Water helps keep your mouth moisturized, as well as remove food particles from sticking to your teeth.
- Visiting the dentist regularly. Preventative care visits are a great way to improve your oral health. During preventive care visits, Dr. Hess can properly examine your teeth and spot any signs of complex dental problems. He will be able to treat your dental issues accordingly after your preventive care visit.
- Eliminating acidic food and beverages from your diet. If you do consume acidic foods or drinks, make sure you clean your teeth afterward.
- Using an ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash. Fluoride can strengthen your tooth enamel. When choosing a mouthwash, make sure you find one that is right for your needs.
- Using restorative dental treatments. Tooth enamel erosion can lead to the development of more complex dental problems, as well as affect the aesthetic of your smile. After a thorough evaluation of your enamel, Dr. Hess can determine which service will help improve your smile.
Q: Can you rebuild tooth enamel once it has been damaged?
A: Once the tooth enamel has been damaged, there is no way to reverse the effects of tooth enamel erosion. Dr. Hess does offer services like tooth bonding, dental veneers, and dental crowns to help treat the damaged tooth enamel by reinforcing it.
Visit Dr. Hess in Monroe, NC
Dr. Hess welcomes all patients to his Monroe, NC dental office in the greater Charlotte area. If you are looking for a caring, committed dentist, visit Union County Center for Comprehensive Dentistry. You can contact us online or call 704.240.5045 to schedule an appointment and join our dental family today!