What Can I Do If My Tooth Enamel Is Weak?

Strong teeth are good at chewing and eating. If you have weak or thin tooth enamel, you may have many problems using and taking care of your teeth. Your dentist in Mundelein, IL, can help. We provide dental treatment for people who have a number of dental problems, including weakened/thin tooth enamel.

What Causes Weakened Tooth Enamel?

Tooth enamel typically starts off strong and grows weaker over time, often due to erosion. The more your teeth erode, the weaker your teeth will be.

There are many reasons people experience weakened/eroded tooth enamel. Here are some examples of problems that can cause weakened tooth enamel:

• Consumption of acidic foods and beverages: If your diet consists of many high-acid foods and drinks, you may erode your teeth over many years.
• Bruxism: Bruxism is a condition that occurs when a patient frequently grinds their teeth. Bruxism can grind tooth enamel down and may lead to the teeth becoming cracked and broken.
• Acid reflux: If you have chronic acid reflux, regular exposure to stomach acid may weaken your tooth enamel with time.
• Brushing too hard: If you brush your teeth very hard or brush your teeth with a hard-bristle toothbrush, your teeth may become thin with time.

What Can You Do About Thin Tooth Enamel?

If you have thin tooth enamel, your dentist may recommend a variety of treatments to reinforce and strengthen your tooth enamel.

• Dental bonding is a composite material that’s attached to tooth enamel to cover and strengthen it.
• Dental veneers are a cover that the dentist may place over your teeth to reinforce the enamel and improve the appearance of your teeth.
• A dental crown is a cap that the dentist can place over the entire tooth to protect the enamel.

How Can You Tell If You Have Weak Tooth Enamel?

If you have thin tooth enamel, the dentist will likely let you know. You may also notice that your teeth break easily, and you may also have tooth sensitivity as well.

If you have thin tooth enamel, it’s important to see the dentist for regular dental exams in Mundelein, IL. Call today to make your next dental appointment.