#060 - Tooth Enamel Can't Regrow, But It Can Reharden

Toothpaste packaging often promises to repair enamel, while social media insists it never comes back. In this episode of Mind Your Mouth, Dr Maria Florou, dentist and founder of Casuarina Dental, explains why both claims are partly right.Dr Florou outlines why tooth enamel, the hardest substance the body produces, has no living cells and therefore cannot regrow once it has been chipped, cracked or worn away. She then describes how the mouth is in a constant balance between demineralisation and remineralisation, and why softened enamel in the early stages can be rehardened, while a cavity cannot be repaired naturally.In this episode:- Why enamel cannot regrow, and what that means for your teeth- The chemistry behind "repairs enamel" claims- Decay as a daily tug of war between acid and minerals- What a white spot lesion is, and why timing matters- Four home strategies, in order of evidence: remineralising toothpaste, hydration and plaque control, quiet time between meals, and a healthy diet with adequate vitamin D- Remineralising creams based on CPP-ACP, and the caution for anyone who cannot have dairy- How to approach toothpaste claims that say "repairs enamel"Timestamps00:00 The toothpaste aisle vs social media debate01:11 Why enamel can't regrow02:03 The loophole in the chemistry02:47 Decay as a daily tug of war04:12 What is a white spot lesion?05:25 Why timing matters05:49 Four home strategies08:32 Remineralising creams and the dairy caution09:55 Final thoughts on "repairs enamel" claimsIf you found this episode useful, subscribe, leave a review and share it with someone who cares about their oral health.This episode is general education and isn't a substitute for personal dental advice. Speak with your dentist about your own situation.