Damage to tooth enamel and associated increased sensitivity of teeth is a fairly common occurrence. Some chronic diseases, bad heredity, and bad habits lead to it. The disease brings great inconvenience - because the teeth begin to react with painful impulses to cold or hot food. In advanced cases, drinking a glass of water or starting a conversation in the frosty air becomes a problem. In addition, thinning of the enamel also leads to aesthetic problems. Whitish matte spots appear on the teeth. And tooth enamel gradually loses its shine.
At the initial stage, special medicinal pastes will help cope with the problem. Today they are widely represented on the shelves of pharmacies and stores. But how to choose not just the best toothpaste for restoring tooth enamel, according to colleagues, girlfriends or marketers, but the one that can cope specifically with your problem. Let's try to understand the reasons for the thinning of tooth enamel and their consequences, and the rating of toothpastes with the effect of restoring enamel, compiled by the editors of the YaNashla website, will help with this.
Causes of thinning tooth enamel
There are many reasons for damage to tooth enamel, but all of them, as a rule, can be divided into three groups.
Bad habits
The world is full of temptations. And when lighting another cigarette or trying to chew on a pen during difficult negotiations, few people think about the harm to their teeth. Among the most common causes of enamel damage it is worth noting.
- Biting nails, pens or pencils, chewing the corner of the collar and other actions. Often they are not controlled by humans. However, such behavior should be dealt with firmly. At a minimum, it is ugly, at a maximum - you will subsequently have to shell out a large sum at the dentist.
- Smoking. Hot fumes cannot but affect the condition of the enamel, so it is worth thinking about means to get rid of the addiction.
- Love of alcoholic drinks, sweets, soda, sour juices or fruits. Acids themselves destroy the hard coating of teeth, and sugar is a breeding ground for bacteria.
- Poor nutrition. A poor diet and quick snacks often lead to a lack of microelements in the body.
Getting rid of bad habits is not easy, but it is quite possible. Especially when it comes to health. And products for sensitive teeth and enamel restoration will help improve the condition of the enamel.
Improper oral care
The desire to have a snow-white smile and fresh breath is commendable, but sometimes it leads to disastrous results. How can improper care cause damage to teeth?
- Hard brushes will clean your teeth white, but will easily damage the enamel. And together with the efforts made when brushing your teeth, they can lead to the appearance of microcracks and erosions.
- The same effect can be obtained if you often use teeth whitening products, especially those prepared at home.
It should be remembered that cracks and erosions are the most difficult to treat and can serve as a base for carious bacteria.
Complex health problems
The most difficult case is when treatment will take quite a long time. Most often they are associated with the general state of human health. Among them.
- Caries and hypoplasia of tooth enamel.
- Bad heredity. It has long been a proven fact that problem teeth are inherited from parents to children.
- Systemic and chronic diseases that cause metabolic disorders.
- Hormonal imbalances associated with diseases of the thyroid gland, adrenal glands or age-related changes.
- Malocclusion and a large number of missing teeth.
Here, medicated toothpaste will only be an additional means to reduce pain. You can achieve lasting results only by solving health problems.
Prevention of damage to tooth enamel
To strengthen your teeth enamel, you need to follow the recommendations of specialists. It is important to perform them especially carefully if the patient has thin tooth enamel.
- All rules of oral hygiene must be followed. These should include [2]:
- Brushing your teeth at least twice a day using a soft toothbrush and dental floss. Strengthening tooth enamel requires the use of fluoride-containing toothpaste and rinse to enhance the remineralization process;
- visiting a specialist at least once within six months: he will not only conduct a preventive examination, but also tell you how to restore tooth enamel if it is damaged;
- professional teeth cleaning procedure .
- Restoring tooth enamel requires eliminating alkaline and acidic foods and drinks from the diet, for example, sour fruits (including citrus fruits, apples, berries), juices, and drinks containing citric or phosphoric acid. After consuming such drinks or foods, you should rinse your mouth with mouthwash or water [2].
- You should avoid snacking during the day, especially foods containing large amounts of starch and sugar (baked goods, cookies, chips, candy bars, etc.). There is evidence that when eating sweet foods, the peak of acid attack on the teeth occurs within the first 20 minutes, so it was removed about 1-2 hours.
- It is advisable to maintain a drinking regime, especially in cases where the patient experiences dry mouth or does not produce enough saliva [2].
- It is important to adhere to a nutritious diet that provides the body with the necessary amount of minerals and nutrients. First of all, this concerns the consumption of foods high in potassium, calcium, magnesium (salad greens, fermented milk products, bananas, broccoli and others) [3].
Fluoride toothpaste not only helps remove plaque, but also provides the added benefit of preventing tooth decay by making tooth enamel stronger.
"Frequently Asked Questions About Fluoride," American Dental Association.
List of sources
- Dentistry. Textbook. Aleksandrov M. T., Bazhanov N. N., Medvedev Yu. A., Platonova V. V., Sergeev Yu. N. / Ed. N. N. Bazhanova. - M.: GEOTAR, 2008.
- Erosion and restoration of tooth enamel. WebMD Medical reference book, ed. A D. Wyatt Jr., D. Stom. surgery, May 14, 2018 // URL: https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/tooth-enamel-erosion-restoration#1 (access date: 04/20/2020).
- Aidemirova M.A., Petrova A.P. Clinical aspects of dental erosion // BMIK. 2016 No. 6. URL: https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/klinicheskie-aspekty-erozii-zubov (date of access: 04/10/2020).
- Duggal N. Erosion of tooth enamel: what you need to know // Ed. S. Falk, Doctor of Medicine n., 04/05/2017. URL: https://www.healthline.com/health/enamel-erosion (accessed 04/10/2020).
What to choose from
Before choosing a toothpaste based on reviews, advice, and popularity of models, it’s a good idea to visit a dentist and get recommendations. Today, three main types of toothpastes are produced to restore enamel.
- Calcium-containing toothpastes, in which the main active ingredient is calcium compounds. The option is more gentle, but not effective in all cases. Most likely, it will not cope with microcracks and erosion.
- Fluoride-containing toothpastes are more powerful. However, their use is not recommended for long-term use. Fluoride compounds can cause the opposite effect in the form of tooth fragility.
- Combined toothpastes containing the two above-mentioned microelements.
In any case, assessing the condition of tooth enamel will not hurt, and most likely will help to avoid mistakes when choosing toothpaste to restore tooth enamel. After all, the choice is not just an oral care product, but, in fact, a medicine. And here the selection criteria are slightly different than mint or fruit flavors. Although this is also important.
Calcium-containing toothpastes
The main active ingredient in these pastes is calcium and its compounds. Manufacturers also add additional components to toothpastes, including extracts of herbs and plants that have anti-inflammatory or antibacterial effects.
SPLAT Biocalcium
A well-proven toothpaste on the market for restoring tooth enamel, produced in Russia, “SPLAT Biocalcium”. It contains three active ingredients: hydroxyapatite restores and strengthens tooth enamel; calcis fills microcracks and gives them whiteness, papain prevents the proliferation of microbes and bacteria in the oral cavity.
SPLAT Biocalcium
Advantages:
- A noticeable result after a week of use, tooth sensitivity is noticeably reduced;
- Has a whitening effect;
- Normalizes pH in the oral cavity;
- Reduces the risk of tartar formation.
Flaws:
- The use of SPLAT Biocalcium toothpaste is effective at the initial stage of the disease.
There are packages on sale in volumes of 40 and 100 ml, costing 75 and 140 rubles. respectively.
President Unique
Toothpaste for restoring tooth enamel “President Unique” from an Italian manufacturer. In addition to hydroxyapatite and papain, it contains aloe extract and vitamin E, as well as spherulites from Senegalese acacia juice, which gently cleanses and whitens tooth enamel.
President Unique
Advantages:
- Quickly restores damaged enamel;
- Has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects;
- Prevents the formation of plaque and tartar;
- Has a beneficial effect on the gums, relieves inflammation and improves blood circulation in the tissues;
- Can be used for prevention and treatment in the initial stages of periodontal disease.
Flaws:
- Far from affordable price. A 50 ml tube costs 220-240 rubles.
According to customers, President Unique toothpaste, despite the cost, is one of the effective ways to quickly reduce tooth sensitivity.
ROCS Active Calcium
Russian-made toothpaste for restoring tooth enamel “ROCS Active Calcium” is made on the basis of hydroxyapatite, which has a regenerating effect on tooth enamel. The microelements and xylitol included in the composition normalize the microflora of the oral cavity and strengthen the gums.
ROCS Active Calcium
Advantages:
- It has a very mild abrasive effect and is suitable for people with hypersensitive teeth;
- Quickly eliminates the problem of tooth sensitivity;
- Reduces the risk of tartar formation;
- It contains no synthetic dyes.
Flaws:
- To achieve a lasting effect, toothpaste should be used for a long time;
- Not suitable for the treatment of microcracks and erosions of tooth enamel.
Available in tubes of 94 ml, costing 270 rubles.
ROCS Sensitive Restoration and Whitening
An excellent alternative to ROCS Active Calcium for people with more advanced forms of the disease. The main active ingredient is also hydroxyapatite, but in the form of a suspension. Its particles reliably seal defects and reduce tooth sensitivity.
ROCS Sensitive Restoration and Whitening
Advantages:
- Not only strengthens tooth enamel, but also eliminates its damage;
- For a short time, it reduces pain until it disappears completely;
- Suitable for mild whitening;
- The magnesium contained in the composition strengthens the gums.
Flaws:
- Despite the mildness of the effect, ROCS Sensitive Restoration and Whitening toothpaste is not recommended for use for a long time.
- Perhaps its cost. For 74 ml you will have to pay 270 rubles.
According to manufacturers, alternate use of toothpastes to restore enamel “ROCS Active Calcium” and “ROCS Sensitive Restoration and Whitening” will effectively combat the thinning of enamel without resorting to the help of heavy artillery.
Pomorin Maximum Protection
More than a third of Pomorin Maximum Protection toothpaste from a well-known Bulgarian manufacturer consists of a solution of Pomorie lye, which is responsible for restoring enamel. In addition, it contains calcium carbonate, magnesium, zinc and many other important minerals.
Pomorin toothpaste
Advantages:
- Regenerates, restores and strengthens tooth enamel;
- Kills carious bacteria and reduces the risk of caries;
- Reduces tooth sensitivity;
- Has a prolonged effect;
- Reasonable cost. A 100 ml package costs from 120 to 140 rubles.
Flaws:
- Slightly unpleasant, salty taste.
The choice of toothpastes for restoring enamel is wide. And at first it is better to do without fluoride. But if the discomfort and pain do not stop, you should not delay. It's better to see a dentist.
Symptoms of erosion
At the initial stage, enamel destruction manifests itself in the form of small spots, which are characterized by loss of shine [3]. At this time, only a specialist can detect them. At this stage, it is quite possible to restore the initial damage to the enamel using remineralization therapy.
As it progresses, other signs of erosion appear. Among them [4]:
- sensitivity, including reaction to cold and hot foods;
- the appearance of yellowish spots on the surface of the teeth;
- cracks and chips along the edges and on the chewing surface of the teeth.
In later stages of tooth enamel destruction, severe pain may occur as a reaction to food that is too cold or hot, or sweet or sour foods [3].
Fluoride toothpastes
Fluoride is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, its compounds allow you to quickly and effectively cope with pain and damage to tooth enamel. On the other hand, it tends to accumulate in the body and increase the fragility of bones and teeth. Small children and residents of regions where there is an excess of fluoride in drinking water should not use pastes with fluoride.
The most effective active ingredients, according to the dentist, are amino fluoride and sodium fluoride.
PresidentClassic
PresidentClassic toothpaste is made in Italy. It contains sodium fluoride, which forms a protective film on the surface of the teeth. Xylitol and herbal extracts have an antiseptic effect.
PresidentClassic
Advantages:
- Quickly eliminates discomfort.
- Protects tooth enamel;
- Prevents bleeding gums.
Flaws:
- If you believe the reviews, there are none.
PresidentClassic toothpaste is sold in 50 ml and 75 ml tubes. The cost of a small package ranges from 140-160, a large one - 200-240 rubles, respectively.
Herbal Complete
“Herbal Complete” toothpaste for restoring enamel from the German company Silca. Also made with sodium fluoride, plant-derived additives and vitamin E.
Herbal Complete
Advantages:
- Provides comprehensive oral care;
- Strengthens and protects tooth enamel;
- Reduces tooth sensitivity;
- Has a pleasant fruity taste;
- Suitable for children.
Flaws:
- Long-term use is undesirable.
Miradent Mirafluor C
Miradent Mirafluor C toothpaste is made in Germany and is one of the latest developments based on amino fluoride, which allows you to build up tooth enamel.
Miradent Mirafluor C
Advantages:
- Quickly and effectively restores tooth enamel;
- Prevents the development of caries;
- Has a mild cleansing effect.
Flaws:
- Care must be taken in use to prevent an excess of fluoride in the body;
- High cost from 390 rub. for 100 ml.
Arktikum Splat
Arktikum Splat toothpaste is a Russian development based on amino fluoride. In addition, it contains papain and ratania root extract.
Arktikum Splat
Advantages:
- Builds up tooth enamel;
- Quickly copes with pain symptoms;
- Reduces the risk of developing caries;
- Has a beneficial effect on gum health;
- Has a bright refreshing aroma.
Flaws
- Impossibility of constant use.
The price for a 100 ml tube is 120-150 rubles, which is a good alternative to German toothpaste.
How is enamel strengthened?
Apadent paste with the Pro prefix is intended specifically for professional use, that is, in the dentist’s office. As a rule, it is combined with comprehensive hygiene. Both procedures take about 30-60 minutes and are carried out as follows:
- applying superficial anesthesia if necessary,
- removal of plaque and stone using ultrasound, Air Flow,
- polishing tooth enamel using a brush and regular paste without adding abrasive particles,
- applying Apadent Pro composition to the enamel, brushing each tooth for 15-20 seconds for better penetration of the active substance,
- Keep the paste on the teeth for 2-3 minutes, after which it is washed off.
As a rule, with minor demineralization, one application will be sufficient. For more pronounced pathologies, it is better to carry out the enamel strengthening procedure in a course that consists of at least 3 repetitions. This can be done both in dentistry and at home - for this the patient will need to have individual mouth guards made.
The strengthening of Apadent Pro in general has practically no restrictions - it is suitable for both children and adults. If you monitor the condition of your teeth, treat all diseases in a timely manner and do not forget about comprehensive hygiene, this paste will be an excellent assistant in maintaining the health of your entire oral cavity. But, naturally, this procedure should be carried out on a regular basis - 1-2 times a year will be enough for prevention.
Choose a toothpaste and not make a mistake
So, what criteria should you use to choose a toothpaste to restore enamel and not make a mistake? Let's start with the safest pastes, which, if they don't help, at least won't harm.
The safest toothpastes according to dentists
- Pomorin Maximum Protection;
- SPLAT Biocalcium;
- President Unique;
- Herbal Complete.
The most effective toothpastes according to customers
Efficiency and speed are good. The main thing is not to harm yourself. When choosing a toothpaste for restoring tooth enamel with powerful active ingredients, it is better to consult a doctor.
- Miradent Mirafluor C. Powerful anti-caries agent.
- PresidentClassic. An effective fluoride toothpaste.
- Arktikum Splat. Russian analogue of Miradent Mirafluor C toothpaste.
- ROCS its effectiveness lies in the use of two toothpastes of the brand “Active Calcium” and “Restoration and Whitening”.
Indications for use
This paste is prescribed to patients with increased sensitivity of the enamel, in the presence of superficial caries and foci of demineralization. It is also used as a preventive measure for many dental diseases along with comprehensive oral hygiene. The composition is completely safe for both adults and small children, even if a child swallows it, nothing will happen, because the paste contains no dyes or toxic substances.
Strengthening the enamel is also indicated before and after teeth whitening - the procedure will restore the mineral composition of the enamel and reduce sensitivity after aggressive exposure. In addition, the procedure using the paste will prolong the effect for at least six months.
The paste will also be an excellent solution for patients who wear aligners to correct their bite or are preparing to install/remove braces.