woman checks her tooth enamel

Can Tooth Enamel Grow Back?

August 21, 2023 7:13 pm

Enamel is the extremely hard outer surface of your smile, providing protection to the sensitive inner layers of your teeth. Even though enamel is the strongest substance in the human body, it can still be worn away over time. One question that patients commonly ask is: Can tooth enamel grow back?

What Is Tooth Enamel?

First, let’s explore what enamel is exactly. Made up of minerals, tooth enamel contains high levels of calcium and phosphate. These elements combine to create hydroxyapatite crystals, which gives enamel it’s strength and durability.

Unlike other tissues in the body, tooth enamel is not made of living cells. This means that enamel cannot naturally regenerate. Once your tooth enamel wears down, the body is unable to produce more of it.

How to Preserve Tooth Enamel

Now that we know that tooth enamel can’t grow back, let’s look at how we can keep it from eroding in the first place.

  • Maintain Good Oral Hygiene:

    Brushing and flossing daily will help keep your smile safe from bacteria and plaque that can wear away tooth enamel.

  • Eat a Tooth-Healthy Diet:

    Highly acidic foods and sugary snacks can erode enamel and cause tooth decay. Foods high in calcium, on the other hand, support enamel remineralization, so prioritize a diet full of leafy greens and dairy to keep your teeth strong.

  • Use Fluoride Products:

    Fluoride attracts calcium and phosphate, strengthening enamel. Choose a toothpaste and mouthwash that contains fluoride to help maintain a healthy smile.

  • Treat Bruxism:

    One common cause of enamel loss is bruxism, or teeth grinding. If you struggle with bruxism, try wearing a nightguard to protect your tooth enamel from wear and tear.

Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry in Canton, GA

If your tooth enamel has worn down to the point that it’s causing dental problems, come see the team at Riverstone Dental Care. We provide restorative dental treatments, like crowns, fillings, and onlays, that can address the effects of enamel loss. We also offer cosmetic services like veneers that can protect your teeth and give you a bright, white smile. If you have additional questions about enamel loss, give us a call!


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