What Can Your Dentist Do About Tooth Enamel Loss?

Tooth Enamel Repair Services in Tempe, AZ

What is Tooth Enamel?

Tooth enamel is the thin outer layer of your teeth that covers the entire visible part of your tooth. Although it is the hardest tissue in the human body, tooth enamel can wear away over time for various reasons. The term “tooth decay” typically means the erosion of the tooth enamel.

What Causes Tooth Enamel Erosion?

There is no singular cause when it comes to tooth enamel erosion. Erosion of tooth enamel happens when acids wear away the outer coating of teeth. Some of the causes of tooth enamel erosion include:

• Excessive soda and fruit drink consumption
• Dry mouth or low salivary flow
• A diet high in sugar and starches
• Acid reflux disease
• Digestive problems
• Certain medications
• Genetics
• Environmental factors

How Does the Dentist Treat Enamel Erosion?

Treatment of tooth enamel loss depends on your individual needs. Your dentist may recommend tooth bonding (filling the damaged areas with tooth-colored resins) to protect the tooth and improve its appearance. If the enamel loss is more severe, a crown may be necessary to protect the tooth from further decay. Other alternatives include fillings and veneers to restore the tooth to its original strength and appearance. You may not know you’ve lost tooth enamel until it has reached a more advanced stage. If your teeth are sensitive to hot or cold, you’re probably losing enamel, and if left untreated, this can lead to more severe tooth decay.

The Restorative Dentistry Services We Offer

Tempe residents will find a wide range of restorative dentistry services at Tempe Smiles Family Dental. In addition to tooth enamel repair, we also offer dental implants, dentures, all-on-4 dentures, crowns and bridges, root canals, all-on-4 implants, and more. Below, we’ve detailed each of the restorative dentistry services we offer our valued patients:

• Dental Implants – These artificial teeth have artificial roots that are fused into the jawbone. This makes a permanent solution for teeth that are missing or broken. Dental implants are designed to seamlessly replace a patient’s natural teeth.
• Dentures – This common prosthetic is designed to replace missing teeth that have been lost due to decay, age, or other means. Our team is dedicated to helping patients find the perfect fit.
• All-On-4 Dentures – This type of denture offers a unique alternative when it comes to replacing missing teeth. Patients can opt for these dentures to replace their upper and lower teeth instead of getting individual implants.
• Crowns & Bridges – A dental bridge consists of two crowns for the two teeth on both sides of the opening. These teeth are called abutment teeth, and artificial teeth called pontics are placed in the middle. These crowns and teeth are made as a singular, solid piece.
• Root Canals – This dental procedure is helpful in repairing infected teeth, as well as teeth that have undergone trauma. When gradual decay damages your tooth pulp, your dentist may recommend a root canal to save the affected tooth.
• All-On-4 Implants – If you have lost your teeth due to periodontal disease or an accident, all-on-4 dental implants can efficiently serve as your replacement teeth.

Contact Us Today for Tooth Enamel Repair

While toothpaste for sensitive teeth is available, it’s important to see your dentist to find out which tooth enamel repair treatment is best for you and your unique needs. Tooth decay remains a significant issue in the United States, despite advances in dentistry. The best way to combat this issue is to maintain great oral care habits and visit your dentist regularly. Whether you need tooth-colored fillings or fixed bridge dental services, Tempe Smiles Family Dental can help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.