How to Tell if You Have Weak Enamel
Not everyone has strong enamel on their teeth. Enamel can weaken for various reasons. If your enamel has weakened, how can you tell you have this type of problem? The following information will give you more insight into this type of dental issue.
What is Tooth Enamel and How Does It Get Damaged?
To understand better how enamel can weaken, you first need to understand what tooth enamel is. The enamel of our teeth is the outermost surface layer that helps fortify it and protects it from decay. Truth be told, our tooth enamel is statistically considered to be the hardest and most durable mineral substance in the body. Therefore, it is even stronger than the bones. However, in spite of this fact, acids and sugars can erode the enamel, which leads to weakness and decay. Once the enamel is gone, the condition is permanent. Enamel damage occurs from either erosion or abrasion. For example, abrasions can result from brushing with too firm of a toothbrush or using a toothpick. Erosion, by contrast, happens when you drink or eat acidic foods or beverages. Enamel can also erode or deteriorate from toxins that are commonly released from dental plaque.
Signs that Your Enamel Has Eroded or Is Weak
While enamel loss is not always obvious, signs of damage may take the form of tooth sensitivity, a change in tooth color, or differences in texture like a very smooth area. For example, if your teeth appear yellow or there are certain parts of a tooth that look worn and shiny, you may have enamel loss. The appearance of white spots can also indicate damage to enamel structure. Likewise, if you notice increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and liquids, you may be experiencing an early sign of enamel loss. Later stages may feel more severe. In some cases, teeth may feel rough around the edges. Indentations on the surface of teeth may also indicate that your enamel is wearing or eroding away.
We can assess your teeth and see where you may have weak enamel or enamel loss, and we will let you know how to correct the problem. Contact us for an appointment today. Make sure you schedule regular dental appointments to take care of any problems with enamel loss or cavities.
