Evidence-Based Strategies for Boosting Tooth Remineralization

Dental caries is a chronic, multifactorial, pathological disease of tooth structure that negatively affects populations across the world. It can result in impaired quality of life due to pain, anxiety, acute and chronic infections, and eating and sleep disruption.

Demineralization and Remineralization
Demineralization of enamel occurs when salivary pH drops below 5.5. Factors that directly affect the acidity of salivary pH include: Certain foods adhere to teeth longer than others providing substrate for bacteria for longer amounts of time, Individual factors—acidogenic bacteria/plaque microbial composition, saliva characteristics, and tooth structure differences, Behavioral factors—frequency of fermentable carbohydrate consumption like sucrose, fructose, glucose and cooked starch, oral hygiene, and professional dental care,& Genetic influences. Dental caries does not develop in the absence of sugar.

Supporting Enamel Strength
The strength of enamel, the most mineralized tissue in the body, is conferred by hydroxyapatite crystals, which are composed of calcium and phosphate ions. The remainder of enamel’s structure is made up of water and proteins . Once salivary pH drops below 5.5, demineralization starts, creating a weaker structure. While community water fluoridation is regarded as the “most cost-effective method of delivering fluoride to all members of the community, research has shown that fluoride’s greatest benefit is delivered topically via toothpastes, mouthrinses, varnishes, gels, etc. In addition to using a fluoride toothpaste twice daily, 38% silver diamine fluoride (SDF) solution and 5% sodium fluoride varnish to arrest advanced cavitated carious lesions on any chewing surface has been proven effective.. Dental sealants can arrest or reverse non cavitated carious lesions on chewing surface.In addition, using Xylitol can reduce bacteria’s ability to attach to tooth surface. These dental products guard against plaque build up and harmful bacteria and strengthens the enamel thus ensuring a stronger and healthy enamel.
By visiting your dental professional more frequently, caries can be stop dead on it’s track. For any questions or concerns, you may call Dr. Kimberly. A. Rosen DDS at 661-255-2545.