When you smile at your reflection in a mirror, you are seeing the enamel covering on your teeth. Enamel is the hardest substance in your body and is primarily made of minerals.
Here is a quick look at what makes up your teeth:
- The enamel covers the outer layer of your teeth, forming a strong barrier to protect the inside.
- The next layer under the enamel is called dentin. This layer contains microscopic hollow tubes or canals. When the dentin is damaged, the tubes allow acidic foods or extremes in temperature to stimulate the inside nerves causing pain.
- The inner core of each tooth is the pulp. This soft tissue contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue.
- The root of the tooth is about 2/3 of each tooth; embedded in bone, it holds the tooth in place.
Protect Your Tooth Enamel So It Can Protect Your Teeth
Enamel is a strong barrier that protects the inside of the teeth from damaging plaque and acids, and also protects you from pain due to hot and cold food and drink.
But because the enamel layer is made of minerals and not living tissue, it can’t repair itself when damaged by decay. It is very important to take good care of your teeth including the enamel to prevent erosion.
Here are easy steps to protect the enamel of your teeth:
- Practice good oral health care such as brushing daily and flossing your teeth each day.
- Brush teeth gently with a soft toothbrush to avoid enamel erosion.
- Visit us regularly for an oral exam and cleaning.
- Avoid foods that can damage teeth such as acidic and sugary foods and beverages. With bacteria, these substances can produce damaging acid. Always brush after eating these foods.
- Brush or rinse your mouth with water after eating or drinking citrus fruits or juices.
- Don’t chew on very hard foods like ice cubes and hard candy that can cause the enamel to chip or crack.
Come See Us with Any Tooth Pain or Damage
Dr. Lorraine Burio of Candlewood Dental Care has been treating and educating patients for over twenty-five years. Our office serves the New Fairfield, New Milford, Danbury, and Sherman areas of CT and Pawling, Patterson and Putnam Lake of New York. You can call us at 203-746-1200 or make an appointment here.