Your dental enamel is a vitally important part of any tooth. That is because dental enamel is truly the first defense your tooth has against damage and infection. Our Saint Louis dentists believe that the more our patients know about how their smiles work, the better able they are to protect their teeth for years to come.
So, with that in mind, today we are going to be explaining the ins and outs of dental enamel!
Take a look at your smile in the mirror: the visible portions of your teeth—the white and shiny and outer coverings—are made up of dental enamel. If you tap on your teeth with your fingernail, you’ll notice that dental enamel is hard. When you run your tongue over your enamel, you’ll find that it feels smooth and slick.
This is because dental enamel is specifically designed to be hard and somewhat non-porous. Dental enamel is like the wall of a fortress—it protects the weaker, more porous tooth layers that lay beneath it.
Dental enamel allows you to chew and drink comfortably. Enamel also protects your inner tooth from dental debris, sharp objects, and bacteria.
The problem is, dental enamel is not indestructible. Over time, physical abrasion as well as exposure to bacteria can weaken and wear down dental enamel. When this happens, your teeth are more likely to become infected, chipped, and cracked.
Many of the oral health recommendations we make, therefore, are aimed at maintaining and fortifying dental enamel. Daily brushing and flossing, as well as professional dental cleanings, help your teeth to stay resilient and stable.
Want to learn more about preventive and restorative dental treatments? Our Saint Louis dentists would be happy to provide you with the information you need. We look forward to speaking with you soon!