What Is Remineralisation and Demineralisation?
Your teeth are made up of several different layers. The outer layer is made from enamel, and is one of the hardest substances in the body. Immediately underneath the tooth enamel is a layer of a substance called dentine and this is much softer and less resistant to decay as it consists of thousands of tiny tubules that lead directly to the pulp. The pulp contains all the nerves and blood supply to your tooth, and if it is exposed is likely to become infected and rather painful. Even though the tooth enamel is extremely hard, is still susceptible towards demineralisation, a process that occurs every time you eat or drink something, especially if it’s acidic, high in carbohydrates or very sugary.
The reason for demineralisation is due to the bacteria that are naturally present in your mouth, as they use any leftover food particles for energy, producing acid as a by-product. The acid attacks the tooth enamel, causing some essential minerals to be leached out. After a while the pH levels in the mouth gradually begin to return to normal, and some re-mineralisation takes place. This is where some of the lost minerals are redeposited into the tooth enamel, helping to re-harden it. In spite of this repeated acid attacks will eventually wear away your tooth enamel, increasing the risk of tooth decay and sensitivity, and this is where the use of remineralising toothpaste can help.
Understanding How Remineralising Paste Works
Remineralising toothpaste works by helping to replace some of the minerals lost to acidic attacks. It contains fluoride which helps to harden the tooth surface, making it more resistant to acids and decay. It is also likely to contain other ingredients such as calcium, silica, sodium and phosphorus that can help repair small lesions in the tooth enamel. It’s quite possible that your dentist will be able to supply remineralising paste or gel, and this is often applied using dental trays that are left in the mouth for at least 5 minutes. You can also buy products for use at home. While remineralising products may be useful for reducing lesions in the teeth and reducing the risk of decay, they can also be used for different reasons.
They are often used after teeth have been whitened in order to help reduce sensitivity. Some people may have naturally thinner enamel and can experience tooth sensitivity whenever they eat or drink something hot or cold. In this case using remineralising paste or gel can be helpful.
Yours in oral health,