Children often fear visiting the dentist due to unpleasant and sometimes painful procedures. Adults, on the other hand, tend to fear the hefty bills that come with dental care. When you encounter dental problems, it often means finding a dentist based on recommendations, scheduling an appointment in advance, and making time for the visit. But the most daunting part is the extensive work needed and its high cost. That’s why preventing dental issues is always better than waiting for a minor nuisance to escalate into a major disaster.

Sometimes, teeth begin to break and crumble without any clear cause. Ignoring this problem can lead to worse outcomes—eventually, you may need to resort to false teeth.

1. Abrasive toothpaste and other whitening products often contain harsh particles that scratch the tooth surface and thin the enamel.
2. Consuming excessively hard foods like nuts, crackers, and other solid items can cause cracks, chipping, and other types of damage.
3. Underlying health conditions such as diabetes mellitus or arthritis can contribute to weakened teeth.
4. Bodily changes during pregnancy or aging can also weaken teeth over time.
5. Malocclusion (a misaligned bite) or missing chewing teeth can place extra pressure on remaining teeth, leading to damage.

Prolonged use of certain medications can also cause teeth to weaken and crumble. In such cases, consult your physician to see if your medications can be replaced with alternatives. Only your doctor can determine the right treatment for you.

Leaving these issues unaddressed allows harmful bacteria to enter cracks and chips, leading to cavities. In a matter of weeks, you could lose damaged teeth if the problem is left untreated.

1. Switch to a non-abrasive toothpaste. Whitening toothpastes are particularly aggressive, so it’s best to avoid using them frequently.
2. Avoid eating hard foods. Refrain from using your teeth to crack nuts. Special tools are available in stores for this purpose. Similarly, when eating crackers, soften them in tea first.
3. Incorporate calcium- and vitamin D-rich foods into your diet. Foods like eggs, kefir, sour cream, sea fish, and cottage cheese are excellent sources of these nutrients.
4. Take a high-quality vitamin complex to strengthen your teeth.
5. Use dental floss instead of toothpicks to clean between your teeth.
6. Avoid consuming foods or drinks that are too hot or too cold. Sudden temperature changes can harm the enamel, leading to further damage and crumbling.

If your gums bleed frequently, try rinsing your mouth with a warm decoction of chamomile flowers or sage grass. Also, remember to thoroughly clean your teeth in the morning and before bed. Reducing sugary foods can also help protect your teeth from decay.