You can approach protecting your teeth from both the inside and outside. A healthy diet helps to create a strong tooth formation from the inside, while good dental care practices help keep tooth surfaces clean, strong and protected from the outside. No dental program can guarantee a lifetime free of tooth decay or dental issues, but smart, mindful choices are some of the steps you can take to protect your smile from the inside and the outside. Protecting your teeth from both the inside and the outside can keep you a step ahead of damage and decay. 

Tooth Protection from the Inside

The hard outer layer of your tooth is known as the enamel. A diet rich with calcium and Vitamin D helps to promote healthy enamel. Foods such as cheese, milk, yogurt, and dark green leafy vegetables all contribute minerals necessary to build strong teeth. Drinking water that has been fluoridated provides an essential nutrient to keeping your enamel strong. 

Tooth Protection from the Outside

Brushing and flossing your teeth should happen at least twice a day. This oral hygiene routine helps to remove food from tooth surfaces before oral bacteria can turn it into harmful plaque, which cause tooth decay. Drinking water provides outside protection because it promotes salival protection, and it helps to rinse away food particles and bacteria away from the surfaces of your teeth. If you avoid chewing on hard surfaces like pen caps, fingernails, or ice cubes, you can help to avoid tooth fractures or surface damage. If you participate in high impact sports, wearing a mouth guard can help to protect your teeth from damage. Dental sealants can be applied directly to the surface of your teeth to add a layer of protection against decay. If you think you grind your teeth while you sleep, you should talk to your dentist to avoid the damage they may be caused by the grinding’s friction. 

Talk to your dentist about protecting your teeth

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris would be proud to help protect your smile. Schedule a consultation at Mansfield Dental Associates by calling 817-473-6227. Located in Mansfield, TX, we also welcome patients and families from all surrounding communities including South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian, and more.