Tooth enamel protects our teeth from cavities and injury. In fact, the enamel on your teeth is the hardest substance in the human body. But what is tooth enamel? What happens when our enamel is damaged? In today’s blog, your Lake Forest general dentist, Dr. James Fondriest, explains the importance of tooth enamel.
What is Tooth Enamel?
Tooth enamel is a strong, translucent, substance that covers the visible portion of our teeth. Enamel allows teeth to endure a lifetime of eating and drinking. Our enamel can become stained by foods and drinks such as tea, coffee, red wine, and soda. Tooth enamel contains no living cells, and once enamel has been damaged from chips or cracks the body can’t naturally repair it. Thankfully, Dr. Fondriest can restore your teeth with common dental procedures such as fillings, crowns, or dental bonding.
Enamel Erosion
Enamel erosion occurs when oral acids eat away at the surface of the teeth. As miniscule holes are worn in the enamel, bacteria invade and eventually lead to tooth decay. When patients consume foods and drinks high in sugars and other starches, harmful bacteria break down the food particles. This process elevates the levels of oral acid in your mouth. As the acid weakens your enamel, cavities can form. Patients with enamel erosion often report sensitivity to temperature, indentions on the surface on their teeth, and discoloration of the teeth.
Protect Your Enamel
Maintaining proper dental habits can help prevent enamel erosion. Avoid candy, soda, and other foods high in sugars and starches. Instead of snacking on candy, try chewing sugar-free gum. Chewing sugar-free gum reduces the urge to snack and stimulates saliva production. Saliva neutralizes oral acids.
Brush twice a day and floss at least once. In addition, rinse your mouth with antibacterial mouthwash. These simple steps help cleanse your mouth of harmful bacteria and food particles. Don’t forget to attend regular checkups and cleanings with Dr. Fondriest. Checkups allow Dr. Fondriest to watch for the warning signs of dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. Early detection is key to preserving your beautiful smile.
Schedule a Visit with Your Lake Forest General Dentist
To secure your dental health, attend your checkups and cleanings with Dr. Fondriest. Contact your Lake Forest general dentist by calling 847-234-0517. Our office offers the latest in cosmetic dentistry and welcomes patients from Lake Forest and North Shore suburbs of Chicago.