Your teeth are the most used parts of your body. Therefore, they need to be strong in order to accomplish their duties without being worn down or damaged. They also need to remain strong enough to repel harmful oral bacteria and food particles that could lead to tooth decay. Today, we take a look at what makes strong teeth. We will see how you can make them stronger to improve your long term oral health.
The Science Behind Strong Teeth
Teeth are highly mineralized structures. They have an outer layer of enamel, thick layer of dentin, and inner chamber (pulp). Genetics plays a big role in how strong our teeth are. Unlike bone, the outer layer of our teeth is not made of living tissue.
Once fully formed, our enamel has no natural way of healing.
Recent research has found how enamel enjoys such incredible strength. It has long been known that enamel is the strongest part of our body. The answer may lie in mini crystals. The small structures are made of calcium bundled into rods and interrods.
This setup may protect teeth from cracking. The formations do not allow for a natural fault line. Although teeth can and do crack, it takes great strength and pressure to do so. The act of chewing and nighttime grinding can place high forces on teeth. We owe a lot to this unique property that protects our teeth from cracks.
The Importance of Healthy Nutrients
Every part of your body needs a healthy supply of nutrients to function properly and stay healthy. Eat plenty of vegetables such as carrots. Veggies tend to passively clean your teeth as you eat them. The same is true for your teeth and the incredibly resilient enamel that surrounds them.
Tooth enamel is made mostly of minerals, like calcium and phosphate, which are the secret to their enhanced resiliency. To strengthen your teeth, strong teeth must be replenished with these minerals. Having a healthy and nutritious diet is key to oral health and dental health.
Healthy foods increase saliva production and lower unhealthy substances in the body. Healthy foods and drinks with lots of vitamins and minerals can also lower your risk of gum disease
Foods that have high sugar content and acid can pull minerals out of teeth. Don’t forget to eat more leafy greens and fewer breads and acidic foods. Dairy products are also loaded with great minerals.
Revisiting the Point of Good Hygiene
The actual causes behind things like tooth decay are the harmful oral bacteria that form plaque. If you don’t get enough nutrients, then your tooth enamel and teeth will grow weaker.
Healthy or not, your teeth are constantly attacked by oral bacteria. This is why good hygiene is another vital part of keeping your teeth strong and healthy. Brushing and flossing plaque away at least twice a day stops them from producing enough acids to weaken and destroy tooth enamel.
Without proper hygiene and regular dental visits, your teeth are exposed and vulnerable to decay. The American Dental Association recommends regular visits for cleanings as advised by your dentist.
Fluoride and Strong Teeth
This additive to toothpaste strengthens enamel by attracting minerals to the outer enamel layers. The mineral is so effective that many communities across the country add fluoride to water to improve public health.
You can benefit from this mineral by using oral hygiene products that contain fluoride. While there have been health concerns related to this treatment, small uses of fluoride are safe. A recent finding in JAMA noted that pregnant women should avoid using fluoride.
How Strong Will My Restorations Be?
No matter what treatment you seek for restoring or adding beauty to a tooth, your restorations should protect your teeth.
Crowns
Crowns completely cover a tooth in a protective cap. A crown can be made from ceramic, metal, or a combination of the two. Our doctor will consider where the crown is placed. Crowns on the back molars may require metal.
This option provides strength and beauty. A back molar may also benefit from an all metal crown. Since no one sees molars, having a metal crown is not a problem. Porcelain has a density and strength that is similar to enamel.
Veneers
Veneers are thin shells that cover the fronts of teeth. There are several veneer designs. Some do not require the removal of natural tooth structure. Cosmetic veneers can be made from plastic resin or porcelain.
Bonding
Bonding uses composite resin. The material is hardened using a special blue light. Bonding can last for several years when taken care of. A special etching liquid will be used. This will ensure that the bonding remains strongly attached to your tooth for many years.
Bridge
A dental bridge replaces a missing tooth. Some bridges can replace multiple teeth in a row. If you opt for a bridge, the restoration will be supported by neighboring natural teeth. A dental bridge is very strong.
With proper oral care, the bridge can last for 20 years or longer.
Learn More About how to Make My Teeth Stronger
Healthy teeth stay healthy when they’re strong enough to protect themselves against things like harmful bacteria. All of our restorations are made to last. Having a strong smile is important. The strength of your teeth can prevent wear and tear.
Strong enamel is also less prone to cavities.
To learn how to have a healthy smile and to make your teeth stronger, schedule a consultation by calling us at 847-234-0517. We also proudly serve residents of Chicago and all surrounding areas in the Chicago Metro area.