The outermost layer of your teeth is known as the enamel. Known for its durability and strength, it can protect against tooth decay and cavities, which are some of the most common oral health problems seen by dentists today. However, it’s not indestructible. In fact, if you neglect your oral hygiene routine, you will find that it can break down over time, resulting in serious issues developing inside your mouth. But is it possible for tooth enamel in Ponte Vedra to last a lifetime? Read to find out what researchers are saying and what you can do to extend its lifespan.
The Longevity of Your Tooth Enamel
Tooth enamel is an extraordinarily hard substance that experiences immense pressure every day. Each time you chew or bite into a piece of food, it is at risk for wear and tear. When exposed to cold or hot temperatures, it stands up to these extreme changes. Yet, if a traumatic injury occurs or decay penetrates your tooth enamel, it will not regenerate like a broken bone or lacerated tissue.
A person might assume there is no way that tooth enamel can “hold up” throughout an individual’s lifetime simply because of the daily stresses it faces; however, researchers have found that how a person’s internal tooth structure is formed at birth will ultimately determine how long it will last over the course of a lifetime. Depending on how the enamel rods align (containing hydroxyapatite crystals), even if a small crack develops, it is unlikely to spread far, allowing tooth enamel to last decades or even a lifetime.
The Importance of Tooth Enamel
Because it is the top layer of your tooth, it is important that you keep your enamel strong and healthy. Sugars, starches, and dark-colored foods and beverages can weaken this hard substance over time, allowing decay to enter and cause cavities to form. Bruxism and other bad habits like eating ice or chewing on pens and pencils can also break down this outermost layer, causing you to be vulnerable to many common dental problems. In choosing to keep your tooth enamel better protected using fluoride (toothpaste, drinking water, and dental treatments), you will better equip your teeth to withstand daily wear and tear and ensure their longevity.
Ways to Protect Enamel
To keep your tooth enamel from weakening over time, you might consider trying these helpful tips:
- Drink fluoridated water to not only strengthen tooth enamel and combat tooth decay but also remain hydrated. Not only will it benefit the outer layer of your teeth, but it will also flush out any bad bacteria and food particles that might try to penetrate the enamel.
- Minimize or avoid sugar if at all possible. Bacteria love to feed on sugar, causing acids to form and break down your tooth enamel. Try to swap out sugary foods and beverages for healthier alternatives (i.e., natural fruit, water).
- Avoid consuming acidic beverages. Fruit and sports drinks as well as carbonated beverages and alcohol will eat away at your tooth enamel. If you do consume any of these, make sure you have a glass of water nearby.
Make sure you’re taking proper care of your teeth to ensure the lifespan of your tooth enamel. In combination with your at-home oral hygiene routine, seeing your dentist in Ponte Vedra for regular checkups and cleanings will ensure your pearly whites remain protected for years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Eric Townsend earned his bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Florida and his doctorate from the Medical College of Virginia School of Dentistry. As a dentist at Ponte Vedra Complete Dentistry, he and his colleagues believe it is important to provide patients with the knowledge and tools to take care of their smiles while at home. From improving brushing techniques to knowing when to start their morning oral hygiene routine, it is this information that can help strengthen tooth enamel and protect it against tooth decay. If you want help to improve the look and feel of your pearly whites, contact us at (904) 285-7711.