Publications and advertisements frequently mention enamel and the importance of maintaining its strength, but are you familiar with what exactly enamel is? This outermost layer of each tooth plays a critical role in protecting its innermost layers and roots. 

Continue reading to learn more about enamel and how to strengthen tooth enamel naturally, and when you should consult your dentist for help.

A Closer Look at Tooth Enamel

The word “enamel” is often tossed around casually in whitening advertisements or health publications, with only a brief mention of the importance of maintaining strong tooth enamel. But what exactly is it and why is it so important? You’ve come to the right place! Below is a closer look at tooth enamel and a bit about why it’s so important:

What is Tooth Enamel?

There are multiple layers to the tooth, starting with the very center, the dental pulp. This living core of the tooth contains the tooth’s blood supply, connective tissue, and nerve ending. The next layer surrounding the pulp is the dentin, a calcified layer filled with thousands of microscopic channels known as dentinal tubules. Surrounding the dentin is cementum, a mineralized surface layer that helps anchor the tooth. Finally, the outermost layer of the tooth is the enamel, a highly mineralized surface that covers the crown. 

Why is Tooth Enamel Important?

Tooth enamel is the body’s hardest substance, serving as the first defense against heat, cold, acidic foods and drinks, and chewing. As we age, enamel wears down from drinks, foods, and natural wear and tear throughout the years. Other factors, such as some teeth whitening products, aggressive brushing, receding gums, and teeth grinding, can weaken enamel. Enamel is crucial for protecting the innermost layers, keeping the inside of the tooth healthy.

Wearing down the enamel exposes the dentin, causing stimuli to reach the nerves, giving you those twinge-worthy sharp pains. According to the National Institute of Health, over 12% of Americans experience tooth sensitivity, most often affecting those aged 18-44.

Weakened tooth enamel can also increase the risk of developing cavities. The stronger the enamel, the less plaque and bacteria can penetrate and demineralize the tooth. Teeth with weaker enamel are also prone to fractures and chips.

How to Strengthen Tooth Enamel

Unfortunately, the body doesn’t regenerate enamel once it’s worn down. However, you can strengthen it by using certain products and maintaining an excellent oral hygiene routine. Below are some ways to strengthen tooth enamel:

 

 

Though the body doesn’t regenerate enamel once it’s worn down, following the tips above will help strengthen it and avoid further weakening. Visiting your family dentist for your biannual dental check-ups can help you strengthen and maintain stronger enamel.

Signs You Should Seek Professional Dental Help

Everyone’s enamel wears down as they age, and it’s not usually a cause for concern. However, you may need to seek professional help if you develop any of the following oral health concerns:

Persistent Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is common, but it doesn’t mean it’s normal and should be ignored. If you’re having persistent tooth sensitivity, it’s time to seek professional dental help to determine if weakened enamel is the cause of your sensitivity. While not every sensitive response to stimuli is a cause for concern, the following shouldn’t be ignored: visible damage to the teeth, over-the-counter sensitivity treatments no longer work, one tooth is sensitive, and it causes severe discomfort.

Dull/Translucent Teeth

As enamel weakens, dentin, the layer beneath the enamel, starts to show. If your teeth appear duller or they’re looking thin or translucent, it’s time to consult with your family dentist. They can examine your teeth to determine whether you need to strengthen your enamel or if there’s another oral health concern.

Chipped Teeth

Teeth can chip for many reasons, sometimes from weakened enamel. As the enamel wears down, the tooth is vulnerable to chips and cracks. A chipped tooth is often a dental emergency, especially if you’re having pain, inflammation, or bleeding. If your teeth are chipped, contact your family dentist right away to discuss enamel reshaping to help your overall bite.

You Grind Your Teeth

Bruxism, also known as teeth grinding, is relatively common, but it’s a habit you’ll need to break or seek treatment for. As you grind, your enamel weakens over time, exposing the layers beneath the enamel, causing pain and sensitivity. Treatment options to stop grinding and protect your enamel include custom night guards and splints.

Strengthen Your Tooth Enamel with a Little Help From Rhoades!

Rhoades Family Dentistry’s team of professionals includes dentists and hygienists who have extensive schooling and training to perform dental treatments, including strengthening tooth enamel. Dr. Hahn and Dr. Driscoll are members of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the International Association of Orthodontics, among many other organizations. They can help you determine which enamel-strengthening treatment is best for your individual needs and answer any questions you may have.

Rhoades Family Dentistry offers dental care for the entire family, including routine cleanings, preventative maintenance, fillings, and more. Dr. Hahn and Dr. Driscoll care about your family’s oral health and are here to recommend the best oral hygiene practices for your entire family, including Invisalign and braces, cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, whitening, and more. 

Book an appointment today by scrolling up and clicking “BOOK AN APPOINTMENT” on the top left of your screen or by calling (913) 782-8900. We look forward to serving you with excellent dental care and helping your family achieve healthy smiles!