09 Aug How to Remineralize Teeth at Home [5 Simple Tips to Try]

Your teeth may look strong, but they may actually be getting sapped of essential nutrients and gradually weakening over time. This is known as demineralization and it’s something we all face. Fortunately, there are easy steps you can take to help keep the minerals you have as well as remineralize your teeth. This will keep them strong and healthy for years to come.

You can remineralize your teeth at home by:

1. Practicing good oral hygiene
2. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste
3. Eating a diverse diet
4. Consuming less sugar
5. Enjoying fruit and fruit juice in moderation

What does remineralize teeth mean?

Tooth enamel is made up of important minerals such as calcium and phosphate which help prevent tooth decay and cavities. Unfortunately, we naturally begin to lose these minerals as we get older due to food, beverages, and lifestyle choices. 

On the bright side, it is possible to regain these minerals in order to prevent tooth decay and cavities. This process is known as remineralization and it’s easier than you may think. You can start by following these tips and following the advice of our team at Athens Family Dental.

1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

When it comes to your oral health, few factors are as important as your oral hygiene regimen. Brushing and flossing are essential for protecting the health of your teeth and gums. Make sure to brush your teeth twice per day for two minutes and floss at least once per day after eating. This helps remove bacteria from your teeth to prevent tooth decay and cavities.

Brushing your teeth does more than prevent cavities. Check out The Importance of Good Dental Hygiene to learn how it benefits your overall health.

2. Brush with Fluoride Toothpaste

It takes more than any old toothpaste to get the most out of your brushing. That’s why you should be using fluoride toothpaste to ensure that you’re strengthening your teeth while you brush. Just look for one with the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance. Their seal promises that you’re purchasing fluoride toothpaste.

3. Eat a Diverse Diet

The foods we eat (or don’t eat) are packed with vitamins and minerals to support oral health. To get the most out of your meals, consume foods containing calcium (dairy products) and protein (meat, poultry, fish, tofu). You should also eat plenty of vegetables and some fruit for their vitamin content. And make sure to drink lots of water to help clean your teeth between brushing.

Do you need help knowing what nutrition supports your dental health? Read Nutrition and Your Oral Health and learn how supporting your oral health through your diet goes a long way!

4. Consume Less Sugar

Sugar is one of the biggest threats to the health of your teeth. It contains high amounts of acid that work with bacteria in your mouth to strip away enamel. In fact, a 2016 study found that eating small amounts of sugar more often causes more demineralization than consuming a large amount all at once. Consuming less sugar regularly can help prevent this problem.

Want to make better choices when satisfying your sweet tooth? Check out The Worst Candy for Your Teeth 2020 for smarter ways to get your sugar fix.

5. Enjoy Fruit and Fruit Juice in Moderation

Candy isn’t the only acidic danger to your teeth. While healthy in many ways, fruit and fruit juice are also high in acids—especially citrus fruits. They cause calcium chelation, which is when acids bind to calcium and strip it away. This process is even worse with fruit juices that contain added sugars. Eat fruit in moderation to protect your teeth while reaping their health benefits.

Are you concerned about your risk of dental caries due to demineralization? Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get your oral health on the right track!

Athens Family Dental is open Monday through Thursday to help with all your dental needs. Call us today at (423) 745-3559, or you can schedule an appointment online.