Tooth enamel is the thin outer layer that keeps your pearly whites strong and white. It’s a pretty miraculous substance for a number of reasons – not least of which is the fact that it can last a lifetime. Oh, you hadn’t heard that? It’s true. Keep reading to learn more about the spectacular surface that is the tooth enamel, and how you can protect it with preventive dentistry in Bonita Springs.
How Tooth Enamel Does Its Job
The enamel that protects your teeth is pretty amazing. Unlike bone and skin, which can regenerate when it gets injured, enamel cannot heal itself. Not only that, but it weathers lots of stress – saliva is acidic, which threatens to weaken enamel along with the sugars in what we eat and drink on a daily basis. But despite all these challenges, the tooth enamel you were born with stays with you – protecting your teeth and helping you smile beautifully – for a lifetime.
How is this possible? Well, tooth enamel is made up of microscopic rods, and recent research published in the journal Nature Communications studied the way these rods join together to understand if their configuration had any effect on how strong the enamel is. And the answer was yes! When the rods were perfectly aligned, a crack would form – but if there was a tiny misalignment, the enamel was protected from damage.
The takeaway from this is that, when it comes to your tooth enamel, imperfect is actually perfect!
Protecting Your Teeth for the Long Haul
Your teeth withstand so much, but you can make it easier on them by taking basic preventive steps to protect yourself from cavities, gum disease, and tooth injuries.
Incorporate these tips into your oral hygiene routine to enjoy healthy, beautiful teeth for the long haul!
- Brush your teeth for two minutes, twice daily
- Floss between teeth daily
- Visit your dentist twice annually for a checkup and cleaning (or more often, if recommended)
- Wear a protective mouthguard if you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night
- Avoid candy, sugary beverages, or overly acidic foods as much as you can
- Drink plenty of water so your mouth stays hydrated and ready to wash away plaque-causing bacteria
Now that you know more about the magic that is tooth enamel, hopefully you are feeling motivated to take great care of those pearly whites! If it’s been more than six months since your last checkup and cleaning, don’t wait to contact your dentist for necessary preventive care.
Meet the Dentists
Pelican Landing Dental, led by Dr. Lacy Gilbert and Dr. Rich Gilbert, provides excellent dental care for patients of all ages. In addition to routine checkups and cleanings as well as dental implants and porcelain veneers, this team of experts loves providing dental education on topics including what makes your teeth so amazing! To learn more or to schedule an appointment with your dentist in Bonita Springs, give them a call today at (239) 948-2111.
