What does Enamel consist of?

Remineralising teeth is a process aimed at restoring lost minerals to the enamel, the outer layer of the teeth. Enamel contains a number of minerals – some natural and others, such a fluoride improve the resilience of the tooth to decay.

Minerals in Tooth Enamel

Tooth enamel is primarily composed of the following minerals:

1. Hydroxyapatite: The main component, consisting of calcium phosphate.
2. Calcium: Vital for enamel strength.
3. Phosphate: Essential for the hardness of enamel.
4. Fluoride: Can replace hydroxide in hydroxyapatite to form fluorapatite, enhancing resistance to decay.
5. Carbonate: Present in small amounts, influencing enamel’s properties.
6. Magnesium: Found in trace amounts, affecting enamel characteristics.
7. Sodium: Present in minimal quantities.
8. Potassium: Also found in trace amounts.

Components of Healthy Gums

Healthy gums also rely on minerals and vitamins to maintain a healthy mouth and teeth and the following is a guide to what elements help in maintaining strong teeth and a healthy mouth, preventing conditions like gingivitis.

1. Calcium: Supports cellular functions and bone structure.
2. Phosphorus: Works with calcium to maintain bone and gum health.
3. Magnesium: Important for cellular metabolism and tissue health.
4. Iron: Ensures adequate blood supply to the gums.
5. Zinc: Aids in immune function and wound healing.
6. Copper: Necessary for collagen formation and blood vessel maintenance.
7. Potassium: Regulates fluid balance and nerve function in gum tissue.
8. Vitamin C: Essential for collagen synthesis and gum health.

This process helps to repair early signs of tooth decay and strengthen the teeth, making them more resistant to future decay. Here’s why and how to do it:

Why Remineralise Teeth?

1. Prevent Tooth Decay: Remineralising helps to repair and reverse early signs of tooth decay, preventing cavities.
2. Strengthen Enamel: Stronger enamel is more resistant to acids and plaque buildup, reducing the risk of cavities.
3. Reduce Sensitivity: Strengthening enamel can help reduce tooth sensitivity caused by worn enamel.
4. Improve Aesthetics: Remineralisation can help improve the appearance of teeth, making them whiter and smoother.
5. Following Teeth Whitening: the process of teeth whitening temporarily weakens enamel and can cause demineralisation, it is therefore wise to pay particular attention to this following teeth whitening, and to opt for professional consultation. Whether opting for a quality home whitening solution such as enlighten teeth whitening or an in-clinic laser whitening treatment a consultation is always recommended.

How to Remineralise Teeth

• Proper Oral Hygiene

• Brushing: Use fluoride toothpaste and brush at least twice a day. Fluoride helps to strengthen enamel and promote remineralisation.
• Flossing: Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and below the gum line.

• Dietary Changes

• Reduce Sugar Intake: Limit sugary foods and drinks, as sugar promotes the growth of bacteria that produce acids causing demineralisation.
• Eat Calcium-Rich Foods: Include dairy products, leafy greens, and nuts in your diet to provide the necessary minerals for strong teeth.
• Increase Phosphorus Intake: Foods like meat, fish, eggs, and nuts are good sources of phosphorus, which is essential for healthy teeth.
• Drink Water: Fluoridated water helps in the remineralisation process.

• Use of Fluoride

• Fluoride Toothpaste: Regular use of fluoride toothpaste helps to strengthen enamel and promote remineralisation.
• Fluoride Mouthwash: Use a fluoride mouthwash daily for additional protection.
• Professional Fluoride Treatments: Your dentist can apply high-concentration fluoride treatments if needed.

• Chewing Sugar-Free Gum

• Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps to wash away food particles and neutralise acids in the mouth. Choose gum with xylitol, which can help reduce bacteria levels in the mouth.

• Use of Remineralising Agents

• Calcium Phosphate Products: These products, such as toothpaste or chewing gum containing casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP), can help remineralise enamel.
• Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste: This can help to restore minerals to the enamel and improve its strength.

• Regular Dental Visits

• Regular check-ups and cleanings are essential. Your dentist can identify early signs of demineralisation and provide treatments or advice to promote remineralisation.

Natural Remedies for Remineralisation

• Oil Pulling

• Swishing coconut oil in your mouth for 10-20 minutes can reduce bacteria and promote oral health.

• Green Tea

• Drinking green tea can help reduce bacteria and acids in the mouth, promoting a healthier oral environment.

• Herbal Remedies

• Clove oil and neem have antimicrobial properties that can help in maintaining oral health and promoting remineralisation. This can be added to water to rinse the mouth like mouthwash or a drop or two added to your toothpaste.

By following these steps, you can help to restore the minerals in your teeth, strengthen your enamel, and maintain better overall oral health.