Perhaps you’ve heard of remineralizing your teeth. It sounds like a cure for cavities and tooth decay. Although remineralizing your teeth can occur in small amounts, it’s not a way to bring back any enamel that wears away completely. In today’s blog from Parkcrest Dental, we explain remineralization and how it affects your teeth.
Remineralization Products
There are several over-the-counter remineralization products on the market. The most effective toothpastes contain stannous fluoride, sodium fluoride, and calcium phosphate. Ingredients such as these bond to weakened tooth enamel and could even repair small holes. It’s as if these minerals act as a patch, much like you would patch holes in clothing. Parkcrest Dental’s staff can recommend the best remineralization products for you.
Thicker Pastes
Toothpaste is already thick, but remineralization products are often thicker than ordinary toothpaste. That’s because the main goal is to put as much good stuff into them as possible. A little goes a long way. When the directions say to use a pea-sized amount, that’s really all you need. The staff at Parkcrest Dental can explain how to use remineralization products.
How These Products Work
The overall goal of remineralization products is to prevent further tooth decay. They cannot replace any enamel that’s already been lost. Fluoride acts similarly to calcium to strengthen the surface of your teeth. It can also fill in small holes in the enamel. Once you brush with remineralization toothpaste, you must combine it with other healthy oral hygiene habits to protect your teeth. Brush and floss after meals, eliminate sugary foods, get plenty of calcium and vitamin D in your diet, and consume crunchy vegetables to circulate plenty of saliva in your mouth. Parkcrest Dental believes in complete dental care and oral hygiene.
Do Remineralization Products Work?
Keep in mind that fluoride toothpastes already remineralize teeth to some extent. Specialty toothpastes designed for remineralization accomplish this more so and faster. The American Dental Association has a searchable database for enamel erosion control, but the organization has yet to give any remineralization products the seal of approval. Parkcrest Dental can suggest what types of remineralization products you should use and which to avoid.
Parkcrest Dental: Here for You
There are a lot of dental products out there in the toothpaste aisle. Remineralization products are typically more expensive than others. Do they work? Be sure to read online reviews before selecting a product, if you choose to go this route for your oral hygiene. Contact Parkcrest Dental Group or call (417) 887-1220 for more information and for what our staff recommends.
