The process of remineralization of teeth. Why is the teeth remineralization procedure necessary? What is and what are the causes of dental demineralization?

Tooth remineralization is a dental procedure that is the process of restoring and strengthening tooth enamel using fluoride and calcium medications. Special solutions for remineralization can be applied using special applicators or an electrophoresis apparatus.

The latter method is preferable, since the use of electric fields increases the degree of absorption of active substances and ensures deeper penetration into the treated tissues, but it is not suitable for everyone due to a fairly large list of contraindications.

Despite the fact that the pharmaceutical market offers a large number of fluoride and calcium preparations for local applications to teeth, it is better to perform the procedure in a dental office, since it requires certain preparation that cannot be done at home.

Why is remineralization therapy needed?

The enamel coating of teeth (tooth enamel) is the hard shell of the crown of the tooth, which is almost 96.3% composed of inorganic compounds and substances, including acid oxides (calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, phosphorus, etc.). In the human body, enamel is the hardest tissue, and its thickness can reach 1.8-2.1 mm. The main functions of tooth enamel are to protect the tooth from deformation, damage, exposure to thermal and chemical factors, as well as the formation of local resistance (resistance) to the influence of external pathogens.

The essence and goals of the procedure

One of the factors responsible for dental caries susceptibility is adequate fluoride intake. Fluorine is a colorless gas with a pungent odor and exhibits strong antioxidant properties, reducing the risk of dissolution and destruction of enamel. To maintain oral health, it is important to maintain an optimal acid-base balance (from 6.7 to 7.3), which can be disrupted by acids and fermentation products of sucrose and carbohydrate foods. Fluoride, which is contained in tooth enamel in the form of fluorapatites, neutralizes the effects of harmful acids and helps maintain the usual level of alkaline environment, helping to retain the main components of the tooth (phosphorus and calcium) in its tissues.

The main source of fluoride for humans is tap water. An adequate level of water fluoridation is 0.5 to 1 mg/L. If this element enters the body in insufficient quantities, the risk of developing caries and other dental diseases, including osteosarcoma of the jaw, increases.

Water is a source of fluoride, the lack of which leads to diseases of tooth enamel.

Remineralization of teeth eliminates fluoride deficiency, strengthens enamel, increases its protective properties and prevents the development of caries.

Pay attention! The procedure can also be used for therapeutic purposes at the initial stage of caries (chalk stain stage), which can often only be diagnosed using special tests involving the application of dyes and drying of the teeth, so a dental examination must be performed at least once every 5-6 months.

Indications for use

The main indication for fluoridation of teeth is the initial stages of caries. It is not only the most common dental pathology, but also the most frequently diagnosed disease among the human population of any age.

Caries is characterized by the growth and reproduction in the mouth of cariogenic flora, represented by streptococci, staphylococci and other types of opportunistic bacteria, and damage to hard tooth tissues, followed by necrosis and decay. At the initial stage, caries looks like a chalky spot (macula cariosa stage), and one of the reasons for its occurrence is the active process of leaching calcium and phosphorus from tooth enamel, which is called demineralization.

This type of caries in most cases is asymptomatic: only in rare cases can a patient complain of hypersensitivity reactions when teeth interact with thermal and chemical irritants. Remineralizing therapy at this stage is the main method of treatment and allows you to stop the pathological process before it enters the stage of superficial caries. Treatment usually takes no more than 10 days and requires the patient not only to visit the treating dentist in a timely manner, but also to improve oral hygiene at home.

In what other situations can enamel remineralization be carried out?

Other indications for which remineralization therapy may be recommended are:

hypoplasia (thinning) of tooth enamel;
intensive abrasion of hard dental tissues, characteristic of some chronic diseases (for example, Stanton-Capdepont syndrome);
destruction (destruction) of the hard elements of the tooth of aseptic origin;
increased sensitivity (hyperesthesia) of teeth upon contact with external pathogens, which can be both thermal irritants (cold and hot food, air flow) and chemical agents (acids, spices, etc.);
dental injuries, which may cause damage and deformation of the enamel coating;
loss of mineral mass of tooth enamel after hardware removal of dental calculus, orthodontic treatment.

Tooth remineralization may be indicated for individuals who are at increased risk for developing mineral deficiency of tooth enamel. These are pregnant women, women who have reached menopause, and people with hormone-dependent pathologies.

In childhood, remineralization of tooth enamel is carried out to strengthen teeth, prevent caries and reduce caries susceptibility due to poor hygiene or excessive consumption of carbohydrate foods. If there are indications, such treatment can be carried out starting from the age of two.

Remineralization of teeth in children is a completely painless procedure that takes place in one visit to the dentist.

Important! Remineralizing therapy must be carried out for patients with carious cavities in the mouth. A special composition is applied to the edges of the carious chamber to increase the effectiveness of general therapy and extend the service life of installed fillings.

What is dental remineralization: types and features

Remineralization is often called fluoridation of teeth, but this is not entirely true, since in some cases the process of restoring enamel is carried out without the use of fluoride-containing drugs.

Types of remineralization depending on the fluoride content in preparations

Type of remineralizing therapy	Main active ingredient	Peculiarities
	Fluorine	This is the most common type of correction of enamel mineral deficiency, which is used in almost 80% of cases when diagnosing tooth demineralization at various stages. The main principle of fluoridation is saturation of the enamel coating with active fluorine. Since fluorine is a highly toxic compound and in high concentrations can be hazardous to health, the use of fluoride-containing pastes and solutions at home is not recommended due to the impossibility of accurately selecting and calculating a safe dosage.
	Calcium and phosphorus (phosphates)	Medicines that do not contain fluoride compounds are considered relatively safe and can be used to restore enamel at home (due to their safety in case of accidental ingestion or violation of the recommended dosage regimen). These products include not only various varnishes, powders and gels, but also special pastes that are suitable for daily hygienic care of weakened and highly sensitive teeth.

Pay attention! If the demineralization process is weak, the doctor may recommend natural remineralization of teeth through dietary correction. It should immediately be noted that as an independent measure, natural remineralization is ineffective and can provide at least a minimally significant therapeutic effect in combination with adequate oral hygiene and other measures to restore the enamel coating.
How is the procedure done?

The procedure for saturating tooth enamel with fluoride and calcium compounds takes place in four stages.

Hygienic preparation of the oral cavity. Before fluoridation, the patient must be sent to a dental hygienist who will perform professional oral hygiene. Dense dental deposits, bacterial plaque, food debris, and tartar are removed from the surface of the teeth using ultrasound or laser. This is necessary to ensure better penetration of the medicinal composition into the deep tissues of the tooth and their rapid restoration.

Salivary fluid can interfere with the absorption of fluoride and calcium, so before the procedure, the surface to be treated is thoroughly dried and isolated from saliva with cotton balls or turundas. The soft tissues of the oral cavity should also not come into contact with the surface on which the remineralizing composition will be applied.

The doctor applies preparations containing free calcium ions to the teeth. To do this, you can use a special applicator (the duration of applications is up to 10-15 minutes) or an electrophoresis device (the current increases the degree and speed of penetration of the active substances into the tooth tissue).

The medications are applied to each tooth in successive movements, after which it is necessary to wait until the surface being treated is completely dry.

If solutions that do not contain fluorine are used for remineralization, the procedure is carried out in three stages and ends with the application of calcium and phosphorus preparations.

Video - What is remineralization of tooth enamel

Drug remineralization regimen

The table below shows a medicinal regimen for dental remineralization, which is classic for most indications.

Preparations for remineralization for caries and other dental diseases

Stage Actions and drugs
First stage (hygienic) Any deposits, stones and plaque are removed from the surface of the tooth. For this purpose, laser therapy and ultrasound devices are used. The procedure is painless, but quite unpleasant, especially for patients with increased sensitivity of tooth enamel.
Second stage (acid treatment) After hygiene measures, chalk stains are treated with a cotton swab, generously moistened with a solution of citric acid with a concentration of no more than 40%. The duration of the acid application is no more than 1 minute. This stage is carried out only in cases where remineralization of teeth is indicated for the treatment of caries. If the patient has no signs of caries, you can immediately proceed to the next stage - drying the teeth.
Third stage (drying teeth) Cotton balls are used to dry teeth. The use of ethers and alcohol solutions is acceptable.
Fourth stage (application of remineralizing drugs) A solution of calcium salt of gluconic acid 10% and a solution of sodium fluoride 2-4% are applied to the teeth. Treatment can be carried out by application and using electric currents. When using the latter option, fresh solution must be added every 4-5 minutes.

The course of treatment for enamel mineral deficiency is usually about 10 days.

Pay attention! One treatment method is the use of a gel tray. This is a special device that is filled with fluoridating gel (for example, Biorepair gel for enamel restoration and hypersensitivity treatment). The effect after using such trays is noticeable already on the second or third day, and one of the main advantages can be considered the possibility of using it at home.

Gels for restoring enamel at home

Before purchasing any means for restoring enamel, you should consult with your doctor, since such therapy may be contraindicated in certain pathologies, for example, enamel hyperplasia. Below is an overview of popular and safe means for restoring the mineral balance of teeth, which can be used independently in case of increased sensitivity, as well as for the prevention of caries.

Keystone Revive

This is a drug for home treatment of dental mineral deficiency, which is available in the form of a dental gel. The product contains optimal concentrations of active ingredients approved for use in childhood, as well as in pregnant and lactating women.

It contains the following ingredients:

calcium chloride – 0.2%;

sodium fluoride – 0.005%;

potassium chloride – 0.005%.

Regular use of the gel helps reduce the risk of dental caries by almost 60% (subject to adequate oral hygiene) and strengthen the enamel coating of teeth by 7-10 times. Keystone Revive gel is recommended for patients suffering from endocrinological pathologies and metabolic disorders, as well as for persons undergoing orthodontic treatment or professional oral hygiene (including teeth whitening procedures).

The product should be used once a day after morning or evening brushing. It must be used like toothpaste: squeeze a small amount onto a brush and brush your teeth for 1.5-2 minutes. After this, you should wait another 1 minute and rinse your mouth thoroughly.

GC Tooth Mousse

This drug for remineralizing therapy at home is considered one of the most effective and safest products in this line. It has a pleasant strawberry flavor, contains bioavailable forms of calcium and phosphorus and strengthens enamel in just a few weeks of daily use.

This gel is recommended for use in adults and children as a preventive measure for increased dry mouth, early stages of caries, impaired acidity of the oral cavity, as well as after fluoridation, whitening and mechanical teeth cleaning.

The product is used for applications that must be carried out according to a certain scheme:

Apply a small amount of gel to the teeth (dosage for 1 row of teeth – a 1 cm strip of gel);

Using a clean and dry finger or a cotton swab, distribute the product evenly over all teeth and leave for 4 minutes;

spit out the remaining gel and try not to swallow saliva for another 2-3 minutes.

To obtain a positive result, eating, drinking, chewing gum and smoking are not allowed for 30-40 minutes after the procedure.

Pay attention! Side effects when using GC Tooth Mousse gel have not yet been registered, but the product should not be used by persons with poor tolerance to milk protein.

What products are there to demineralize enamel?

You can strengthen your enamel not only with the help of medications, but also by consuming certain foods. If you have increased tooth sensitivity, a high risk of caries and damaged enamel, it is useful to include the following foods in your diet:

All types of leafy greens, nuts and vegetable juices with pulp are also beneficial.

Video - How to restore enamel?

Enamel remineralization is a dental procedure that can be used for therapeutic or prophylactic purposes and for patients of any age, including children and pregnant women. It is best to have it performed by specialists in a dental clinic, since using fluoride preparations on your own is not recommended due to the high toxicity of the main component. At home, it is permissible to use restorative pastes, gels and powders that do not contain fluorine compounds.

Patients often turn to the dentist with the problem of increased sensitivity of tooth enamel. Teeth react with dull or sharp pain to cold or hot foods, sweet and sour foods and other factors. Hypersensitivity can be eliminated quickly and safely.

When a sufficient amount of minerals and trace elements enters the body, the condition of the teeth remains normal. With a lack of demineralization, the enamel deteriorates, and the destruction of the masticatory organs appears and begins.

You can replenish your supply with vitamins, proper nutrition and personal hygiene. If consumption exceeds replenishment, it is worth seeking help from a dentist for remineralization on an outpatient basis.

Remineralization of teeth is the process of restoring the density and mineral composition of enamel with the help of chemicals and minerals to prevent the development of diseases and get rid of. Procedures of this type are recommended to be carried out from childhood (after 5-6 years) if necessary.

The remineralization process is carried out in combination with the following procedures:

Removing stones.
Enamel whitening.
Polishing.

The main elements for saturation during recovery are fluorine, phosphorus and calcium. They create a strong, protective barrier against the effects of negative substances on the chewing organs.

Indications

Remineralization should be carried out in the following cases:

The patient has a predisposition to the development of carious diseases.
Presence of deep caries.
Increased sensitivity of teeth to temperature changes, sour, spicy, sweet.
Darkening of the enamel from smoking or drinking tea or coffee.
After wearing.
In the presence of dullness and unhealthy enamel color.
After treatment of the chewing organs, to restore and saturate their surface with minerals in order to consolidate and maintain the result.
For children and adolescents during the period of formation, since the necessary substances are heavily consumed for the strengthening and growth of the whole organism.
During pregnancy, if there are no contraindications. A lot of calcium goes into the development of the fetus, the sensitivity and receptivity of the enamel increases. Supplies need to be replenished.

For children under 5 years of age and pregnant women, it is better to carry out remineralization at home using non-chemical substances, after consulting a dentist.

Species

You can determine whether teeth remineralization is necessary by undergoing a full oral examination by a doctor.

Based on the analysis of the condition of the enamel, one of the types of restoration is prescribed:

In the clinic, as a dentist.
On your own, at home.

At the clinic

coating teeth with fluoride varnish

This procedure takes a lot of time and is carried out according to a sequential chain of dental activities:

Cleaning teeth from plaque using a professional brush and a special oral hygiene product.
Rinse with water and disinfect with a solution containing hydrogen peroxide to remove microorganisms and strengthen the whiteness of the chewing organs.
Drying the cavity with air.
Applying solutions of calcium gluconate and calcium phosphate, as well as complex preparations for restoration, to tooth enamel using cotton pads, changing them every 5 minutes. The event lasts 20 – 25 minutes.
Coating the surfaces of the teeth with a solution of sodium fluoride, and then fixing them with fluoride varnish.

It is not recommended to often use professional preparations to remove plaque; they contain strong chemicals that destroy the top layer of the tooth with prolonged use.

After completing complete mineral therapy, you should not consume drinks or food for 2-3 hours to completely saturate the chewing apparatus with useful elements.

At home

To restore and strengthen the mineral balance of oral tissues at home, several measures are taken:

A special paste is used to saturate the enamel with calcium and fluoride for a month, once every three days. Apply a thin layer for 5-10 minutes, wash off by rinsing with warm water or chamomile infusion.
Periodic use of gels designed to protect against caries and sensitivity. They are applied in a thin layer, forming a protective barrier against external pests. For an hour after the procedure, it is advisable not to consume anything to ensure complete absorption of the substance. Smoking is also prohibited.
Adding fluoride and calcium-containing substances to the diet.
Systematic gum massage. The index finger, after morning and evening brushing of teeth, should be used to improve blood circulation in the gums, as well as supply the teeth with nutritional components.

To independently use drugs and medications for remineralization, it is worth consulting with a doctor about the type, quantity and frequency of use, so as not to cause harm to health.

Remineralization in children

In childhood, demineralization occurs more often than in adults due to the body's increased need for trace elements during development. Treatment is carried out as in adults: outpatient or at home.

Treatment with chemicals at the dentist is used after the age of 5. There are advanced cases when even earlier there is a need to remineralize teeth through serious measures. Often, this is the use of: varnishes, gels or medicinal pastes.

At home, after consultation with a dentist, the following are prescribed:

Rinse procedures several times a day.
Brushing teeth with specially selected children's toothpastes.
Taking vitamin complexes for.
Taking auxiliary calcium-containing drugs.

Prevention

After mineralization of depleted organs in the oral cavity, preventive measures should be taken to maintain the health and beauty of the smile:

Brush your teeth twice: in the morning and before bed.
Rinse your mouth and throat with warm water after each meal or drink.
Use dental floss to remove food debris.
Eat food and drink at an acceptable temperature - not too cold and not too hot.
Eat right, saturating your diet with vitamins and minerals to strengthen the body.
Eat less sweets and highly acidic foods.
Reduce the consumption of coffee drinks and quit smoking and alcohol;
Use mouth rinses depending on the nature of the problem: sensitivity; predisposition to caries; and others;
Visit the dentist every six months.

Excessive consumption of alcohol and tobacco destroys beneficial elements in the body, causes disturbances in water and salt balance and reduces immunity.

Estimated cost

The cost of remineralization of one tooth can range from 150 to 1000 rubles. The price depends on the application of restoration procedures. The more serious the situation, the more expensive it is.

With advanced forms of enamel depletion and possible destruction, treatment will be more difficult. The dentist will first have to clean, then heal, then restore and strengthen the chewing organ. In this case, mineralization is applied after treatment, for which they also charge money.

And if it’s just planned treatment of the cavity and strengthening, then this is an inexpensive process and costs 200-400 rubles. The price depends on the drug being processed and the authority of the clinic.

To avoid breaking the bank, you should ask your doctor about the scope of work and cost of services before starting the procedure.

The process of remineralization of the body in any way will not only relieve the unpleasant condition, but also make your teeth healthy and preserve the beauty of your smile.

Our teeth consist of several layers that differ greatly from each other in density, structure and function. Almost everyone knows that the top shell is called enamel. It has the greatest strength and, among other things, also performs a protective function.

The strength of the upper dental layer is ensured by its structure and composition. Enamel contains many durable minerals, including magnesium, phosphorus, fluorine, calcium, and carbon dioxide salts.

Saturation of dental tissues with these elements, or mineralization, begins even before birth and ends after the first few months of life. Due to natural reasons, microelements are gradually washed out of the enamel.

In the future, this can lead to various diseases, the most common of which is caries.

What is the procedure?

At its core, remineralization is simply a process by which tissues are saturated with essential microelements.

Natural

Throughout life, the body must independently regulate the renewal of all tissues. The same thing happens with enamel. In a healthy person who follows the rules of hygiene and has a strong immune system, the process of remineralization (saturation with minerals) should occur in a completely natural way.

The loss of these substances is often associated with a lack of them in the body. Since a person gets everything he needs with food, the conclusion suggests itself - a proper nutritional system and a nutritious diet are the basis for natural remineralization.

In addition, any diseases of the gastrointestinal tract should be excluded. Indeed, because of them, among other things, the acidity in the oral cavity may increase, which will negatively affect the enamel.

Artificial

If the body’s strength is not enough to replenish the loss of microelements on its own, an artificial method is used. It is carried out using various chemical compounds that coat the surface of the teeth. It is from them that the missing substances are supplied.

Many tools and materials have been developed to carry out this procedure. Some of them are adapted only for professional conditions and specific equipment that is available in modern dental clinics. Some can be used at home.

Indications and contraindications for

This procedure is used both for prevention and for treatment when there is already any significant damage to the tooth enamel. Like any other medical event, it has a list of its own contraindications and indications.

However, simple preventive measures can be taken at home using less complex and affordable means without any restrictions.

Indications

Contraindications

There are very few factors that prohibit this procedure. However, they should still be listed.

Personal intolerance, including the occurrence of allergic reactions to the drugs used.
If so-called fluoridation is carried out, it is contraindicated for those people who suffer from thyroid diseases, osteoporosis, kidney failure and other problems for which fluoride preparations are not recommended by doctors.

Means used for carrying out

The whole variety of means that make it possible to carry out such a procedure can be divided into two large groups.

The first includes only those created on the basis of the element fluorine. The bulk are special fluoride varnishes, which cover the enamel. Besides them there are also therapeutic and prophylactic pastes, which contain fluorine compounds in large doses, which are easily absorbed.
The second group is fluorine-free preparations and materials. Most of their action is due to the content of one or more active calcium compounds. This element is the main one in the structure of enamel.

Usually all products are based on one or another element separately, since their combination can form specific salts that are harmful to teeth and can be destructive.

However, recently special gels have appeared that contain all the minerals necessary for teeth in a complex. The water component prevents them from forming compounds that have an adverse effect on the enamel.

Description of some drugs

Carrying out in the clinic

This happens in several stages, which may vary slightly depending on the materials used.

Preparatory procedures. The specialist conducts a thorough examination of the entire oral cavity and teeth. After this, be sure to have it professionally cleaned. It includes complete removal of plaque and tartar, if they are on the surface. This is necessary, since plaque contains many bacteria that can have a destructive effect even though they are already under a special coating. After cleaning, the surface must be thoroughly dried.

The next stage is direct remineralization. The doctor applies one of several possible materials to the enamel (fluorine varnish, which is called “artificial enamel,” chemicals with magnesium and calcium fluorides).
If a calcium-magnesium complex is used, then after repeated drying teeth must be coated with another compound - calcium-copper hydroxide. This substance promotes the breakdown of fluorides into microcrystals, and, as a result, easier penetration into the dense structure of the enamel.

The described procedure is called deep fluoridation. It is used when damage is already quite noticeable on the surface of the teeth and the active development of caries begins.

Carrying out at home

Remineralization, which is carried out independently at home, should be approached comprehensively. What is included in this complex?

First of all, you should think about changing your diet. Eating foods that contain essential substances in large quantities (calcium, fluorine, magnesium, etc.) will be beneficial not only for enamel. These foods include milk and many dairy products, nuts, green vegetables, legumes, meat and much more.
What follows give up bad habits, since they are one of the factors causing tooth decay.
Taking complex medications containing microelements and vitamins.

Carrying out a gum massage. This helps improve nutrition in tissues and improves the supply of necessary substances.
Regular brushing of teeth using medicated pastes(Lakalut Fluor, Pepsodent, Apadent). Sometimes it is also possible to apply such pastes.
Using special gels for remineralization of teeth. Applications are made for 10–15 minutes, for example, with the well-known drug R.O.C.S. Medical Minerals.

Detailed instructions on how to do everything are waiting for you in the following video:

Prices

The cost of such a procedure can vary greatly depending on exactly what techniques and materials will be used. In addition, it is worth considering that the full price will also include professional teeth cleaning, which is mandatory.

Another factor in changing the price is the choice of a specific clinic. The more famous the dental center is, the more experienced specialists work there, the higher the price will be, accordingly.

Here is a list of approximate (average) prices for some of the possible procedures.

Each of us dreams of a beautiful Hollywood smile, and for this we need healthy and strong teeth. How to preserve and strengthen tooth enamel at home, and what methods do doctors use? What is dental remineralization? Let's try to understand this issue.

Tooth enamel

If we consider the structure of the enamel layer of the tooth, we will see that it consists of a crystalline network, which, in turn, includes tiny prisms of hydroxyalides. Due to this porous structure, acids easily penetrate tooth enamel and minerals are removed. Under the influence of an acidic environment, caries appears, the enamel layer is gradually destroyed, and this process is called demineralization of tooth enamel. Prolonged exposure to acids first leads to superficial caries, and then it reaches the pulp. Painful pulpitis begins.

There are some factors that affect the condition of tooth enamel:

Anatomical structure of the tooth, spaces between teeth.
Oral hygiene.
Saturation of enamel with fluoride.
The quality of food taken and the amount of microelements and vitamins in the body.
Composition and quantity of saliva.
Genetic factor.
State of human health.

Considering the sensitivity of enamel, you need to take care of it, since it can only be restored if it is slightly damaged, so strengthening it is simply necessary.

Recovery process

Remineralization of teeth is the restoration of tooth enamel, increasing its resistance to acidic environments. This procedure reduces tooth sensitivity. It has its positive sides:

The enamel is strengthened.
The development of caries stops at the initial stage.
Tooth sensitivity decreases.
Healthy color returns after wearing braces.
Improper bleaching with harsh abrasives is neutralized.
The microflora of the oral cavity is normalized.
Lightens tooth enamel by 4 tones.

There are two ways to remineralize tooth enamel in dentists’ arsenal:

Artificial.
Natural.

Each type has its own distinctive features, advantages and disadvantages.

Artificial way

In specialized clinics and dental offices, artificial remineralization of teeth is carried out. The following drugs are used for it:

10% calcium gluconate or calcium chloride,
0.2% sodium fluoride,
5-10% calcium phosphate,
2.5% calcium glycerophosphate,
complex preparations: "Remodent", "Ftorodent", GC Tooth Mouss and others.

The essence of the procedure for artificial mineralization of teeth is as follows:

The damaged tooth is covered with artificial enamel, this creates barrier protection.
The tooth is coated with calcium-fluoride varnish; in addition to barrier protection, the enamel is strengthened and the damaged tooth structure is restored. This varnish is applied with a special brush or using trays that are made in a dental office.

Artificial remineralization of teeth may include fluoridation. If the procedure does not include this stage, then the teeth are coated with active calcium in several layers. Finally, fluoride varnish is used as a fixative.

In the case where fluoridation is provided, active calcium and fluorine are applied in turn. This creates a strong protective shell. This method is called deep fluoridation. The course of dental remotherapy lasts from 5 to 20 days.

One method of remineralization is the use of electrophoresis. Calcium and fluorine enter the tooth structure under the influence of weak current discharges that are not felt by humans. The number of physiotherapeutic procedures ranges from 10 to 15.

The artificial method has a positive side - a quick solution to the problem of damaged enamel. The negative side is the rapid wear of the coating. Conclusion: the problem is solved quickly, but not for long.

Natural remineralization of teeth

This method consists of strengthening the enamel, normalizing the composition of saliva and increasing the supply of minerals to the body. All this is quite accessible to everyone at home; for this you need:

Normalize your diet.
Increase your intake of foods containing calcium, fluorine and phosphorus.
Take mineral complexes; they have a good effect not only on tooth enamel, but also on the condition of the gums.
It is necessary to drink enough fluids enriched with fluoride and calcium. As a result, saliva will be released, creating the correct alkaline environment.
Maintain hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with therapeutic and prophylactic toothpastes. This procedure should last at least 3 minutes.

Restoring enamel at home

Remineralizing teeth at home therefore involves using a natural method. However, it is worth supplementing it with procedures prescribed by the doctor. Only the dentist will select the correct treatment. Of course, these will be primarily calcium, fluorine and phosphorus preparations. Professional products of very high concentration are prescribed in a short course in the form of fluoride applications.

At home, pastes, gels and rinses are used.

It should be borne in mind that excess fluoride is just as dangerous as its deficiency. This must be remembered if fluoride-containing drugs are used.

Gels for tooth enamel

It is good to use gel for remineralization of teeth as an addition to toothpastes. It is effective only at the first stage of caries. It brightens teeth well and reduces sensitivity. If the gel is used regularly, a film forms on the teeth, facilitating the penetration of minerals into the tooth and protecting against the effects of acids.

Also, when using such additional means, foci of inflammation are neutralized, conditions for the proliferation of bacteria are eliminated, the enamel is strengthened, all this is an excellent preventative against caries. The gel can be used after bleaching and for focal remineralization. For home use, products such as Amazing White Minerals, Vivax Dent, R.O.C.S. Medical Minerals.

In order for teeth remineralization at home to be effective, you should follow the instructions for use of the drugs and take into account the dentist’s recommendations.

The need for remineralization

Not everyone, of course, is indicated for such a procedure, but there is a category of patients who need remineralization:

For children and adults
At risk of caries development as a method of prevention.
People with increased tooth sensitivity.
For patients after treatment with braces.
People with darkened enamel.
Children in adolescence.
Elderly people.
Pregnant.

Taking care of children

Remineralization of teeth in children, as a rule, begins at the age of 6.

This happens with the help of trays that are filled with mineral complexes. They must be worn for at least 20 minutes a day. The gel consists of active substances:

Xylitol reduces the activity of pathogenic bacteria.
Calcium glycerophosphate forms a film that prevents calcium loss.

The course of treatment is 2-4 weeks. The drug used to fill the mouth guard is prescribed by the doctor, taking into account the characteristics of the child’s body.

Remineralization of baby teeth can be done at home. It includes the use of drugs containing calcium, fluorides and phosphates. These products can be rubbed into the teeth, some can be used in the form of applications, or toothpaste and rinses can be used as a supplement. The course of treatment must be agreed with a dentist.

Remineralization of tooth enamel will occur faster and the effect will last longer if you follow these simple tips:

Everyone should remember that the most effective way to preserve enamel is daily oral care and prevention. A timely visit to the dentist will help keep your teeth strong and healthy. This is the only way to be sure that your smile will always be dazzling.

Even regular and complete oral care cannot guarantee a person a complete absence of dental diseases.

Enamel, which is the outer and hardest layer of the elements of the jaw row, loses the mineral elements present in it over time.

This process is called demineralization and leads to increased tooth sensitivity, the appearance of microscopic cracks in them, and susceptibility to carious lesions.

According to experts, the following factors most often lead to the development of demineralization of the dental surface:

unbalanced diet;
disruption of the digestion of food and absorption of nutrients, resulting in the development of hypovitaminosis;
pathologies of the functioning of the endocrine system, which entail disruption of metabolic processes in the body;
failure to perform oral hygiene procedures;
inflammatory processes in gum tissue;
wearing orthodontic or removable orthopedic structures;
high crowding of teeth;
presence of diabetes mellitus;
the occurrence of hormonal changes in the body.

If any of the above problems occur, you should consult a dentist. This will help to promptly detect the beginning of the process of leaching of useful substances from the enamel and prevent it.

Indications for the procedure

The remineralization procedure is prescribed by the dentist if the patient has the following pathological signs:

the occurrence of toothache when eating food at too high or low temperature, eating sour or sweet foods;
development of carious lesions of the enamel that do not affect the internal tissue of the tooth;
increased abrasion of the enamel or its thinning as a result of whitening, removal of mineralized plaque, or wearing an orthodontic structure;
loss of natural shine of the tooth covering;
inflammation and increased sensitivity of gum tissue;
congenital lack of mineralization of the surface of the incisors;
period of increased body need for minerals - pregnancy, menopause, adolescence.

Contraindications

Despite the absolute safety of the procedure, specialists from dental centers note that its implementation is contraindicated in the following cases:

in the presence of individual intolerance to the drugs used, which manifests itself in the occurrence of an allergic reaction;
in the case of fluoridation of teeth in the presence of factors for which it is not recommended - diseases of the excretory system, pathological functioning of the thyroid gland.

Operating principle

Remineralization is a procedure for restoring the structure of the tooth surface by normalizing the balance of mineral elements that are present in the enamel.

This allows you to reduce the risk of developing caries, increase the strength of the elements of the row and protect them from the action of negative external factors.

The essence of the remineralization process is based on the semi-permeable property of enamel. The tooth surface is covered with a special preparation that contains a complex of mineral elements necessary to maintain the integrity of the incisors.

It may contain calcium, phosphorus, zinc, ionized fluorides and other components that increase the protective properties of the enamel.

The remineralization procedure can be carried out both in dentistry, using professional compounds, and independently, thanks to therapeutic and prophylactic pastes and special gels.

The frequency of the procedure depends on the initial state of the elements of the dentition, therefore It is advisable to first consult a dentist.

Find out why tooth enamel becomes thinner and what methods can be used to restore it from the video.

Professional technique - in dentistry

The procedure for remineralization in a dental clinic involves the use of professional drugs.

Among them, there are two large groups - fluoride-containing products and preparations based on calcium compounds. The choice of a specific compound depends on the degree of demineralization of the tooth surface.

Drugs used

Most often, dentists use the following substances to restore the mineral balance of enamel:

Complex means− “Remodent”, “GC Tooth Mousse”, “Ftorodent”. Applications with a 3% solution of these products saturate the enamel with essential elements such as phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, manganese, iron, copper and zinc. Due to the absence of toxic compounds, they can be used to restore the mineral composition of primary teeth in children aged two years and older.
10% solution of calcium gluconate or chloride. Applying gauze swabs soaked in the preparation to the dental surface allows you to compensate for calcium deficiency. For more complete penetration into tooth tissue, the electrophoresis method can be used.
Sodium fluoride. The compound is most often applied to the enamel after using calcium-containing preparations. Sodium fluoride helps to activate the process of protein metabolism in tooth tissues, as well as reduce permeability.

Carrying out the procedure

The process of artificial remineralization of the tooth surface, carried out in the dental center, includes several stages:

Enamel preparation. Before starting to saturate the bone organs with minerals, the dentist carries out sanitation of the oral cavity, which includes professional cleaning with the removal of mineralized deposits.
This allows you to remove bacteria present on the surface of the teeth and eliminate the possibility of their further development and reproduction under the applied mineral coating. At the end of the preparatory stage, the enamel is thoroughly dried.
Application of restorative gel. Using a special device, the dentist distributes a preparation containing certain mineral elements over the tooth surface.
Its choice depends on the degree of enamel depletion. Most often at this stage, applications with calcium-containing compounds are used.
Fluorine coating. Using a brush or mouthguard, sodium fluoride is applied to the enamel, which helps to activate the mineralization process, as well as create a protective layer on the surface of the teeth that prevents the destructive effects of food acids.
Carrying out electrophoresis. This stage is not used in every case, however, it allows you to increase the effectiveness of the procedure.
Due to the effect of low electric current discharges on the tooth surface, the active elements of the professional gel penetrate into deeper layers.

Depending on the type of composition used, the procedure may vary slightly. The duration of its implementation and the need for repetition are determined by the attending physician based on a preliminary examination of the condition of the elements of the jaw row.

What to do after

The duration of preservation of the results of remineralization carried out in dentistry depends on whether the patient adheres to the following recommendations of the attending physician:

within 2-3 hours after the procedure, you must refrain from eating and drinking;
the procedure for brushing your teeth must be carried out at least twice a day using floss or irrigator;
it is advisable to reduce the amount of foods containing simple carbohydrates and add more fruits and vegetables to the diet;
undergo regular examination by a dentist and repeat the procedure as necessary;
undergo an examination to determine the level of vitamins and minerals in the body and prescribe the necessary complex by a doctor.

The natural way

In addition to artificial remineralization, which involves the application of special compounds, you can enrich your teeth with useful components in a natural way.

It includes the following activities:

diet correction, including dairy products, legumes, seeds, nuts, green vegetables, meat and fish, which are rich in calcium, phosphorus and fluorine;
giving up bad habits, contributing to the destruction of enamel;
drinking fluoridated and calcined water in small quantities after prior consultation with a doctor;
taking vitamin complexes prescribed by a specialist to avoid the occurrence of nutritional deficiencies;
use of therapeutic and prophylactic toothpastes and rinses to prevent the leaching of mineral particles from the enamel.

At home

To restore the mineral balance of the enamel and maintain it at the required level, you can use medications intended for home use.

These include therapeutic and prophylactic pastes, rinses, gels. However, in order for these products to be beneficial and not harm your teeth, you must adhere to the following rules:

The paste must contain one active component - calcium or fluorine. The simultaneous presence of these elements will lead to their neutralization.
The choice of remineralizing gel should be made after consultation with a dentist, based on his recommendations.
Before applying a special gel, it is necessary to remove bacterial plaque from the surface of the teeth using a paste and a brush, and then remove moisture from the enamel using a gauze swab or a directed air flow.
For ease of application, dentists recommend using a lip fixation device.
Before using a specific drug for remineralization, you must read the instructions for its use and safety precautions.

Gels

At the initial stage of demineralization, it is possible to prevent its further progression through the use of the following drugs:

Amazing White Minerals. This gel allows you to fight caries at the stage of its occurrence, reduces the sensitivity of teeth and increases the duration of their whiteness after professional whitening.
Vivax Dent. The remineralizing balm contains sodium fluoride, a peptide complex, kelp extract, and castor oil. The product is intended for daily use and has antibacterial and antiseptic properties.
R.O.C.S. Medical Minerals. The drug is intended to strengthen sensitive teeth. It contains compounds of magnesium, calcium and fluorine, which help increase the strength of enamel and suppress the activity of bacteria.
Lakalut Alpin– toothpaste with anti-caries and anti-plaque properties. Thanks to sodium fluoride and a mineral complex, the product tones the gum tissue and slows down the formation of mineralized plaque.
Gel Elmex contains sodium fluoride and amino fluoride, which promote mineralization and strengthening of enamel. The instructions suggest cleaning your teeth with the product no more than once a week.

Price

The cost of remineralization depends on whether a professional procedure is used or drugs used at home.

So, for in-office saturation of teeth with a vitamin complex you will have to pay from 150 to 300 rubles per tooth.

The cost of self-use products is as follows:

The video describes in detail a professional approach to the process of tooth remineralization.