Professional Remineralization
in Midtown Manhattan
Our teeth aren’t inert: they contain living tissue that’s actively maintained by the body. Though severely damaged tooth enamel cannot grow back on its own, our teeth have self-repair mechanisms designed to prevent decay.
In recent years, researchers have found ways to support enamel health by amplifying natural remineralization. Dr. Matthew Nadler is one of a select few dentists in Manhattan who offer professional remineralization treatments.
Call (212) 757-3745 to get your specific questions about natural remineralization answered quickly.
Demineralization Vs. Remineralization: Understanding Tooth Decay
Enamel, the hard outer covering that protects the dentin and root of each tooth, is largely comprised of calcium. While enamel is very durable, exposure to acid can soften it over time and leave teeth vulnerable to damage and decay. (This process is known as acid erosion.) Once the enamel is breached, the softer dentin and pulp below it can be rapidly eaten away by bacteria, forming caries (dental cavities). Teeth with eroded enamel are also more prone to developing cracks and chips.
What Causes Acid Erosion?
A number of different factors directly and indirectly worsen acid erosion:
When carbohydrates break down in the mouth, they provide ample, immediate food for bacteria. Some of these bacteria excrete acids, so having more bacteria in your mouth can lower its PH. Over time, this acidic environment wears away tooth enamel.
Even if you try to avoid consuming sugar, you can suffer from acid erosion. Numerous foods and drinks, including soda pop, citrus fruits, and some processed foods, have a very high acid content. With regular exposure, these acids can be nearly as damaging to enamel as sugar.
Dry mouth is damaging in two ways: Without sufficient salivary flow, acids and sugars remain on the teeth much longer, causing more damage. Saliva is also essential for depositing new enamel-hardening minerals onto the teeth. When saliva levels are low, remineralization slows down, making teeth more vulnerable to decay. Dry mouth is caused by a wide array of medications, certain genetic conditions, and aging. If you suffer from dry mouth, Dr. Nadler can help you develop in-office as well as at-home strategies to limit its effects.
More rarely, acid erosion is caused by acid reflux disease (GERD). Acid reflux can cause stomach acid to back up into the mouth, harming the teeth.
Meet Our Doctors
Drs. Matthew and Sheldon Nadler
Dr. Matthew Nadler and his father, Dr. Sheldon Nadler offer state of the art comprehensive dental care in their friendly, yet professional, midtown New York office, using the most current technology.
Our doctors participate in ongoing continuing education, which provides them with the knowledge to guide you to a healthier lifestyle. You can feel confident that your dental needs will be addressed by knowledgeable dental specialists who are leaders in their respective fields.
Meet Our Doctors
Drs. Sheldon and Matthew Nadler
Dr. Matthew Nadler and his father, Dr. Sheldon Nadler offer state of the art comprehensive dental care in their friendly, yet professional, midtown New York office, using the most current technology.
Our doctors participate in ongoing continuing education, which provides them with the knowledge to guide you to a healthier lifestyle. You can feel confident that your dental needs will be addressed by knowledgeable dental specialists who are leaders in their respective fields.
How Natural Remineralization Works
Normally, saliva compensates for natural mineral loss. Saliva deposits calcium and phosphate ions onto the teeth; these ions then bind with the enamel and maintain its hardness. Unfortunately, natural remineralization is not always enough to keep acid erosion at bay. Today, we’re exposed to numerous acidic products that didn’t exist until very recently in our evolution, so our mouths haven’t kept pace with the power of modern acid erosion. This is why many people turn to professional remineralization to prevent tooth decay.
Professional Remineralization
Careful, effective remineralization involves several steps.
First, we apply a special remineralization treatment to condition the teeth, making them more viable to remineralize. Next, we apply calcium and phosphate in a form that the teeth can absorb. We’ll advise you on how to support the remineralization at home. Keep in mind that full remineralization may take several treatments.
Professional remineralization is a form of Proactive Intervention Dentistry. Proactive Intervention Dentistry focuses on preventing tooth decay before it starts. This way, patients can avoid the need for invasive restorations like dental fillings.
One of the best agents available for remineralization is fluoride. The fluoride ion replaces the present enamel’s hydroxy group, creating a hard enamel structure that’s more resistant to acid. Fluoride ions also attract nearby calcium ions and help them attach firmly to the surface of the teeth. In this way, fluoride enhances natural remineralization.
Though the fluoride present in drinking water and toothpaste helps teeth remain strong, it isn’t always enough to halt decay. Patients who are at increased risk of acid erosion (such as those with dry mouth or GERD) should ask Dr. Nadler about specialized methods of remineralization. Dr. Nadler can apply fluoride foams and gels directly to your teeth, creating a strong protective barrier against decay. Our teeth are capable of storing fluoride for later use, so a single fluoride treatment can safeguard your teeth for months to come.
Fluoride treatments are completely painless; they’ve also been proven to be safe and effective. Most patients make excellent candidates for fluoride therapy.
Get Started Today
with Nadler Dentistry
Schedule a personalized consultation to meet with the skilled team at Nadler Dentistry and learn how they can create a customized smile to last a lifetime.
The team is always available to talk with you and address any concerns. We are excited to welcome you to our Midtown Manhattan office!
Get Started Today
with Nadler Dentistry
Schedule a personalized consultation to meet with the skilled team at Nadler Dentistry and learn how they can create a customized smile to last a lifetime.
The team is always available to talk with you and address any concerns. We are excited to welcome you to our Midtown Manhattan office!
Arrange a Professional Remineralization Appointment in Midtown Manhattan
Dr. Matthew Nadler is passionate about helping his patients achieve the best possible oral health. If you’re concerned about the effects of acid erosion, he can prevent dental decay with state-of-the-art fluoride treatments. Dr. Nadler also offers a number of cosmetic restoration options, like dental bonding and veneers, that can cover weak, chipped, or stained enamel.
To learn more about the many treatments available at our Midtown Manhattan dental practice, contact us at (212) 757-3745. You can also leave us a note through our website. We’ll be happy to help you achieve a stronger, brighter, and more beautiful smile.