Have you noticed that your teeth appear translucent, especially toward the bottom? This can occur when the enamel, the outer layer of your teeth, has eroded. The effect may detract from the appearance of your smile, but your oral health could be at risk as well.
When enamel deteriorates, it cannot regrow on its own. However, you can visit your dental professional to find a treatment plan that will replace enamel and boost the look of your teeth again. Dr. Robert Gauthier, a dentist serving patients in Northborough, MA, describes the approach your dentist will take when it comes to protecting and restoring eroded tooth enamel.
Can My Dentist Treat Translucent Teeth?
Translucent-looking teeth indicate that your teeth have lost some of the enamel that covers the surface of the tooth, which can expose underlying dentin. Enamel that has eroded cannot regrow nor can a dentist encourage it to grow back.
However, your dentist can develop a cosmetic treatment plan to help you brighten your smile and cover the translucent portion of your teeth. Teeth bonding and porcelain veneers can get you the beautiful smile of your dreams.
Weakened tooth enamel can mean that you feel tooth sensitivity pain as well. This occurs when external stimuli interact with the nerves in dentin when enamel no longer shields them. This pain can be excruciating, but your dentist can replace enamel with tools like veneers and crowns. Schedule a dental consultation to find the best way to restore your unique smile.
How Can I Prevent Enamel Erosion?
Though you cannot reverse the structural damage to your teeth after enamel erosion, you can prevent further harm to your smile. The first step to preserving and caring for your teeth is to practice good oral hygiene.
This entails brushing your teeth twice each day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist for routine teeth cleanings. You can also use toothpaste and mouthwash that contain fluoride. This will fortify your enamel to prevent more erosion as well as fight surface stains on your teeth.
Another contributor to thinning enamel is consuming acidic food items. To protect your dental health, you should limit sugary and citrusy foods and beverages that could weaken your enamel.
Some individuals may be more susceptible to enamel erosion due to underlying medical conditions. If this is the case, consult with your dental professional to find the best method to preserve your oral health.
Protect Your Oral Health with Tips from Your Northborough Dentist
Apex Dental provides porcelain veneers and other cosmetic dental treatments to patients of all ages. Dr. Gauthier is a highly skilled dentist treating patients in Northborough, MA and specializing in general, implant, and restorative dentistry, including TMJ therapy. If you feel nervous about upcoming dental work, ask your dental professional about sedation dentistry options. To schedule a consultation with our practice, contact our office online or reach a member of our staff by phone at 508.506.1691.