SOFT TEETH

IN BIXBY, OK

Welcome to Dental Arts, the informative page about soft teeth. Dr. Michaelsen is overseen by our dedicated dental team. We understand that people with soft teeth have unique challenges when it comes to maintaining their oral health. This page will explore the complexities of soft teeth. We'll cover causes, symptoms, and treatments as well as proactive care strategies. We want to provide you with personalized dental care and knowledge to enhance your smile and protect your dental health.

A woman is sitting on a couch holding a cup of coffee and having a toothache.

What Are Soft Teeth?

Dental enamel hypoplasia is a condition in which the outer layer of teeth (the enamel) is weaker than normal. The weakened enamel makes teeth more vulnerable to damage, decay, and sensitivity. Soft teeth are caused by a variety of factors including genetic predispositions, nutritional deficiencies, medical conditions, and environmental factors in early childhood.

Causes and Risk Factors

A combination of environmental, developmental, and genetic factors can lead to soft teeth. Understanding these causes and risks is essential for identifying those at greater risk of developing soft teeth and taking preventive measures.


Individuals can protect their dental health by addressing these causes, risk factors, and lifestyle changes through preventive measures and proper dental care. Regular dental exams, professional cleanings, and fluoride treatments are all essential to promoting oral health and managing soft teeth. Dental Arts offers personalized dental care.

  • Genetic Predisposition

    Genetic factors are a major factor in the strength and structure of enamel. People with a history of enamel defects or soft teeth are more susceptible to inheriting these traits. This increases their susceptibility to weakened enamel.

  • Nutritional Deficiencies

    Soft teeth can be caused by developmental factors. Nutritional deficiencies or disruptions to enamel formation during tooth development. Early childhood mineral deficiencies such as calcium, fluoride, and phosphorus can affect enamel mineralization. This results in a weaker enamel structure.

  • Medical Conditions

    Some medical conditions and disorders can cause enamel to develop abnormally, resulting in soft teeth. Amelogenesis imperfecta is a genetic disorder that affects enamel formation. This can lead to enamel defects and weak teeth. Enamel strength can be affected by medical treatments that interfere with enamel mineralization.

  • Environmental Factors

    Environmental influences during the critical stages of enamel development can affect enamel quality. Fluorosis can be caused by excessive exposure to fluoride, whether it is from water or fluoride supplements. Trauma or injury to teeth in development can also affect the integrity and formation of enamel.

  • Poor Hygiene

    Soft teeth can be caused by poor oral hygiene, such as ineffective flossing and irregular brushing. Over time, plaque buildup, bacteria growth, and acid production can cause enamel to weaken. This increases the risk of enamel erosion and decay.

  • Dietary Habits

    Eating habits can affect enamel health, and soft teeth are a result. Sugary foods and drinks can cause an acidic environment inside the mouth. This leads to demineralization of enamel and weakening. A diet that is deficient in essential nutrients to strengthen enamel can also increase the risk of soft teeth.

  • Systemic Health Issues

    Certain systemic conditions or treatments may affect the quality of enamel and cause soft teeth. Acid reflux (GERD), eating disorders, and gastrointestinal disorders may expose teeth to acids, causing enamel erosion. The health of enamel can be affected by medical treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

  • Medication Use

    Certain medications, particularly those that affect mineral metabolism or saliva production, can impact enamel strength and cause soft teeth. Antihistamines and antidepressants can reduce saliva production, causing a dry mouth that encourages bacteria growth.

  • Environmental Factors

    Environmental factors, such as occupational hazards and lifestyle choices, may play a part in the risk of soft teeth. Environmental toxins, pollutants, or chemicals can affect enamel quality and formation if they are exposed to excessive amounts during tooth development.

  • Hormonal changes

    Changes in hormone levels during pregnancy, puberty, or menopause may impact oral health, and increase the risk of soft teeth. Changes in hormonal levels can impact saliva composition, enamel resilience, and gum health.

Treatment and Management

Although softening enamel cannot be reversed by proactive measures, it can be managed and protected. Fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and remineralization therapy can help strengthen enamel and reduce decay. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene, which includes regular brushing and flossing, using fluoridated rinses and fluoride toothpaste. Enamel health can be improved by modifying your diet, reducing acidic and sugary foods, and drinking less. Fillings and crowns are sometimes needed to restore damaged teeth.

Preventive Care Strategies

Preventive care is the key to managing soft teeth and maintaining long-term dental health. Regular dental cleanings and check-ups at Dental Arts allow our team to monitor oral health and detect early signs of enamel or decay. This allows us to provide timely intervention. Our customized approach to preventive health includes tailored recommendations based on your specific needs and lifestyle factors. We place a high priority on patient education. This will empower you with the knowledge and strategies necessary to protect your smile, reduce risk factors, and maintain it.

Contact Dental Arts

Do not hesitate to call Dental Arts if you suspect that your teeth are soft or brittle. We can provide comprehensive dental care. To receive a personalized assessment, treatment, and preventive care strategy tailored to your needs, schedule an appointment with our experienced dental staff and Dr. Michaelsen. We are committed to your oral health and will do everything we can to ensure that you have a healthy smile and strong teeth.