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How do you know if your tooth enamel is gone?

Tooth enamel is the hard, outer layer of the teeth. It helps protect the teeth from daily wear and tear. However, tooth enamel can become damaged over time. Knowing the signs of lost tooth enamel can help you get treatment early to prevent further enamel loss.

What is tooth enamel?

Tooth enamel is the visible part of the tooth. It is the hardest substance in the human body. Enamel is made up of minerals like calcium and phosphate. It covers and protects the dentin layer underneath. Dentin is softer and contains nerves and blood vessels.

Enamel is semi-translucent and ranges in color from light yellow to grayish white. It is thickest at the chewing surface of teeth. Enamel thins at the edges near the gums. Enamel also protects teeth from bacteria that cause cavities, temperature changes, and chewing pressures.

How does tooth enamel get damaged?

Tooth enamel can become damaged and worn away over time. Some of the common causes of enamel loss include:

  • Tooth grinding or clenching
  • Acidic foods and drinks like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and soda
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Bulimia or purging
  • Genetics and tooth development issues
  • Excessive consumption of acidic medicines like aspirin
  • Tooth decay or cavities
  • Trauma or injury to the teeth

These issues can wear away enamel over time and expose the more sensitive dentin underneath. Loss of enamel also makes the teeth more prone to cavities and decay.

What are the signs of lost enamel?

Here are some of the most common signs that may indicate your tooth enamel is damaged or missing:

  • Tooth sensitivity – When enamel wears away, dentin becomes exposed. Dentin has thousands of tiny tubes leading to the tooth’s nerve. You may experience sharp pain from hot, cold, or sugary foods and drinks.
  • Discoloration or transparency – Healthy enamel is opaque. As it erodes, the yellow-colored dentin underneath starts to show through. Teeth may become stained or appear more translucent.
  • Rough surfaces or pits – Enamel protects the tooth’s surface from decay. Loss of enamel leads to porous, pitted areas that can collect bacteria and cavities.
  • Cracks – Enamel helps distribute chewing forces evenly. When it wears away, cracks and fractures can form more easily.
  • Changes in shape – Loss of enamel causes the edges and biting surfaces of teeth to look chipped, pointed, or uneven.
  • Tooth decay – Enamel protects against decay. Without it, teeth are more prone to cavities and bacterial infections in the dentin.

How do dentists check for enamel loss?

Dentists use several methods to check for tooth enamel damage during dental exams:

  • Visual inspection – The dentist will look closely at the tooth surfaces for cracks, discoloration, and changes in shape or texture.
  • Tactile examination – Instruments like dental explorers are used to feel for roughness on enamel surfaces.
  • Radiographs (x-rays) – Dental x-rays show between-the-teeth surfaces and enamel thickness.
  • Transillumination – A light source is placed behind the teeth to identify areas of enamel thinning.
  • Acid tests – Weak acids are applied to the teeth to indicate areas of demineralization or porous enamel.

These methods help diagnose the current condition of the enamel. Dentists may also review your medical and dental history for enamel-damaging habits.

What are the treatment options?

Several treatment options are available to restore enamel and prevent further damage:

  • Fluoride – Fluoride toothpaste, rinses, gels, or varnish help strengthen enamel and reverse early decay.
  • Dental sealants – Thin plastic coatings adhere to grooves on chewing surfaces to prevent decay.
  • Dental fillings – Fillings repair cavities and cracked teeth to prevent decay from spreading.
  • Dental crowns – Crowns fully encase damaged teeth to strengthen them and prevent fractures.
  • Enamel microabrasion – A mildly abrasive substance is used to remove thin enamel stains.
  • Teeth whitening – Whitening strips, gels, or dental treatments can lighten teeth darkened by enamel loss.

For advanced cases, more complex treatments may be needed to restore form and function:

  • Dental bonding – Tooth-colored resin is applied to fix chips or cracks and even out uneven surfaces.
  • Enamel reshaping – Small areas of enamel are removed to smooth rough spots and edges.
  • Veneers or laminates – Thin shells of porcelain or composite resins are bonded to the front of teeth.
  • Dental implants – Titanium implant posts are anchored in the jawbone to support false teeth.
  • Clear orthodontic aligners – Custom aligners straighten teeth and distribute biting forces more evenly.

Can lost enamel grow back?

Unlike other tissues in the body, enamel cannot regenerate or grow back once it is lost. The cells that form enamel are lost after teeth erupt through the gums. However, early enamel damage from decay or erosion can be reversed remineralization treatments like fluoride.

How can I prevent enamel loss?

You can take steps to prevent tooth enamel damage:

  • Brush teeth twice daily with a soft-bristle fluoride toothpaste
  • Floss daily to remove plaque from between teeth
  • Useproducts like xylitol gum and mints to increase saliva flow
  • Drink water after acidic foods and beverages
  • Avoid frequent snacking and sipping sugary or acidic drinks
  • Don’t brush immediately after consuming acidic foods
  • See your dentist for regular dental cleanings and exams
  • Ask your dentist about sealants for susceptible teeth
  • Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth

When to see a dentist

See your dentist promptly if you notice any signs of enamel loss. Early intervention can help stop decay and restore your enamel. Ongoing dental care is important for monitoring and protecting your tooth enamel.

Conclusion

Tooth enamel protects and strengthens the teeth. However, habits like grinding, acidic foods, cavities, and genetics can cause enamel to erode over time. Signs like pain, stains, roughness, cracks, and decay indicate enamel loss. Dentists can check for damage during dental exams. Treatments like fluoride, sealants, fillings, whitening, and crowns aim to preserve and restore tooth enamel. While enamel cannot regrow, preventing further damage is possible with good oral hygiene and dental care.