Tooth Demineralization

Tooth demineralization is the process of gradually removing minerals from the tooth enamel. In other words, it is the erosion of tooth enamel. The tooth enamel is made up a coating of various minerals, of which the main one is calcium phosphate. Tooth enamel can become soft when it is substantially demineralized, thus allowing oral bacteria to penetrate deeper into the tooth, eventually causing cavities to form. When there is a cavity, the dentin layer of the tooth is exposed and if nothing is done and further decay will eventually exposed the soft pulp and nerve of the tooth causing pain.

What cause Tooth Demineralization?
As tooth enamel is made up of minerals, so acids will dissolve minerals. Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars and starches left in our mouth and produce acids as a result. There are also acids from fruits such as tomatoes or oranges.

Symptoms of Tooth Demineralization

Tooth is sensitive to hot or cold.
Discoloration of tooth - Chalky white spot on tooth enamel indicates demineralization. Brown spots indicates there is cavity.
Tooth cavities

How to Prevent Tooth Demineralization?
There are a number of suggestions on how to prevention demineralization of tooth enamel :

Brush your teeth frequently especially before going to bed.
Use toothpaste that has properties that repair and protect tooth enamel such as calcium, silica and NovaMin.
Avoid doing things that weakens the tooth enamel such as chewing ice.
Use antibacterial mouth rinse that has enamel protecting properties.
Eating unprocessed foods that are high in calcium and minerals will replaced any loss minerals
Avoid foods that has high acid content and cut down on sugar intake especially refined sugar.
Flossing teeth to remove food and plaque from gaps of teeth not reachable by toothbrush.