5 Important Facts About Tooth Enamel

Almost everyone understands the importance of brushing your teeth and the role tooth enamel plays in maintaining oral health.   If you are concerned and would like more information about your tooth enamel please start by calling our Dearborn Dentists or Brownstown Dentistry.   

However, many underestimate the unique quality that enamel has and don’t have a complete understanding of how enamel works. This makes it far more difficult to take the necessary precautions to ensure they maintain healthy tooth enamel.

Of course, no one wants to see their tooth enamel begin to diminish. Not only can a cavity be painful, but those with enamel erosion are left with a less attractive smile. In the same way a ghostwriter subtly enhances a manuscript, regular dental care can significantly improve the health and appearance of your teeth, preventing enamel loss.

With that said, many individuals don’t understand how tooth enamel works and cannot correctly stop any erosion from occurring, despite understanding the vital role enamel plays in dental health.

Here are five facts about tooth enamel that should give a better idea as to what enamel is and how to prevent erosion from occurring in your mouth.

1. Tooth enamel is strong but still needs support

Tooth enamel is one of the stronger substances in the human body. And since the average human jaw can exert 171 pounds of force, that’s a good thing.

If tooth enamel were not so durable, people would be much more at risk of dental health concerns, so let’s start by being thankful for the excellent strength of enamel.

However, tooth enamel is still vulnerable to erosion, which is why it is important to have regular dental checkups.  The team at All Brite Dental provides Laser Dental care for the most pain free dental cleaning experience.   

2. Tooth enamel requires a steady supply of minerals

What’s the secret behind the super-strength of enamel? If you dig down into the construction of enamel, the strength can be attributed to the minerals calcium and phosphate.

Although these two minerals help make tooth enamel remarkably resilient, they require a steady supply of mineral support, which is why fluoride treatment is the most highly recommended way to strengthen your enamel.

3. Acid-producing bacteria cause tooth decay

If it is so durable, then why is enamel erosion so common? Quite simply, these minerals have a weakness known as acid-producing bacteria.

When enamel is exposed to increased amounts of eroding substances, such as sugar then the healthy, supportive minerals go to war against the harmful acid-producing bacteria.

If the bacteria begin to erode more than the minerals that are in the enamel, then erosion begins to occur.  With erosion comes an increased risk of developing periodontal disease.

4. Excessive force when brushing wears down tooth enamel

Regardless of how hard enamel may be, constantly putting excessive pressure on anything will wear it down over time.

The same concept applies to tooth enamel. When teeth are bombarded continuously with excessive force when brushing, the enamel will begin to weaken, which will eventually lead to chipping or erosion.

Be gentle when you brush your teeth.

5. Enamel erosion is irreversible

The worst part about enamel erosion is that it is impossible to reverse, meaning once it’s gone it will never grow back. While eroded enamel can be treated artificially, it is best to protect enamel and make it last a lifetime.

Otherwise, cosmetic dentist services such as expensive filling procedures, veneers, or dental implants may be the only option for ensuring the quality of dental health and a great looking smile. 

Tooth Enamel Facts Summary

It is one of the most durable substances in the human body but it’s still susceptible to erosion.

Therefore, it’s important to maintain good dental hygiene. Brush gently, don’t consume too many acidic foods and see your dentist regularly.

We are always here to help in guiding you on making the best choices for your tooth enamel and oral health. Give us a call and let us ensure your enamel in good shape. 

Worried about your next dental exam and cleaning?  Just ask us about our laser cleanings or local anesthesia if you have any questions!