Our Tooth Enamel

Anatomy and structure

Tooth enamel is the hardest tissue in the human body and serves as a protective shield for our teeth. It is up to 2.5 millimetres thick and covers the entire surface of the tooth crown and the dentin. However, it does not cover the underlying root.

Enamel is made up of hydroxyapatite crystals, which are composed of calcium and phosphorus. This combination makes the enamel strong and at the same time flexible enough to withstand the forces of chewing and biting. It also contains proteins that bind the minerals together and make them even stronger. The surface layer of enamel is called the organic pellicle, which protects against acid erosion from food particles and bacteria. Enamel is also riddled with tiny pores or tubes that make sure nutrients get inside your teeth when you eat or drink something nutritious.

How is enamel produced?

Tooth enamel is produced by cells called ameloblasts. These cells secrete a special type of mineral known as hydroxyapatite, which helps form the hard outer layer of the tooth. As we get older, our ability to produce these minerals decreases, which can lead to weakened tooth enamel. This makes it more susceptible to damage from acidic foods and drinks or teeth grinding, which can lead to tooth decay and other dental problems. To prevent this, it is important that we replenish our enamel through proper oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing regularly. In addition, a balanced diet of calcium-rich foods such as dairy products, leafy vegetables, legumes and nuts can help strengthen tooth enamel over time.

The structure of enamel and how it protects your teeth

Tooth enamel may be challenging, but it's also pretty delicate! It's packed with proteins, minerals and even salts that make up its structure and ensure it stands up to daily wear and tear. All these elements are important for the functioning of this layer, which acts as a protective shield for our teeth, keeping them from decay and cavities. Although it covers our teeth densely and with remarkable uniformity, tooth enamel is considered a kind of tissue because its well-connected composition is so finely balanced. It is to this tough yet delicate substance that we owe our "pearly whites"!

Tooth enamel erosion

Acids cause tooth erosion by wearing down the enamel on teeth. Low saliva production or a dry mouth can both contribute to enamel degradation (xerostomia). Saliva prevents tooth decay by clearing out the bacteria and food particles in your mouth. Moreover, it reduces acids to a manageable level. Heartburn or acid reflux disease (GERD) can also lead to tooth erosion. They increase stomach acid and can thus attack the enamel in the mouth.

Foods that lead to enamel deterioration

We all know that a healthy diet is important for strong teeth and gums, but did you know that there are certain foods that can attack your tooth enamel? Foods such as citrus fruits, fruit juices, excessively sugary foods and snacks or soft drinks are known to break down tooth enamel. Acidic products can attack your enamel, leading to tooth decay and tooth sensitivity in the future. If you do indulge in these types of foods and drinks, make sure you rinse with water afterwards or drink plain water while eating to reduce the acidity in your mouth. By taking a few simple steps such as reducing sugar and coffee, and avoiding sweets, soda, wine and other acidic foods, you can keep your enamel healthy!

How to tell if your enamel is weak

The best way to tell if your enamel is weakened is to pay attention to your teeth and the signals they give you. The first sign of weakened enamel is usually sensitivity - for example when you eat hot or cold foods or drink something cold. If your teeth feel very sensitive, this could be an indication that your enamel is weakened. One of the main reasons for tooth sensitivity and, subsequently, dental damage, is enamel erosion. Your gums will be more vulnerable to gum disease if this happens.

Another way to tell is by the discolouration of your teeth: if your teeth are discoloured, your enamel may be damaged. If you can see the individual grooves on your teeth, it probably means that too much of the surface has been worn away. If any of these points apply, you can come to our Studio for an Oral Health Checkup!

Can plaque lead to eroding enamel?

A sticky film known as plaque is composed of bacteria, food particles, saliva, and other elements. Plaque builds up in the spaces between your teeth and enters the molars' minuscule fissures or pits. Moreover, it reaches the gum line, right adjacent to cavity fillings, and the area where the teeth and gums meet.

Food starches can occasionally be converted into acids by the bacteria in plaque. As this occurs, the good minerals in the tooth enamel begin to be eaten away by the acids in plaque. As a result, the enamel erodes and develops pits. The enamel pits enlarge and grow larger with time.

What can you do if your enamel is gone?

When your enamel is destroyed, it may seem like there is no hope of restoring your teeth. In truth, however, there are some steps you can take to restore your oral health. First, it's important to visit a Studio as soon as possible to determine the best course of action. Our dental hygienists can recommend fluoride treatments or special toothpastes and mouthwashes designed specifically for people with weakened enamel. You should also limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods, as these can erode the remnants of your enamel.

Proper dental hygiene to prevent enamel loss

Proper brushing techniques and good dental care will not only prevent toothache but will also help preserve your enamel. Make sure to take care of your dental health and therefore brush your teeth regularly and have your teeth professionally cleaned. When brushing, make sure you use a toothpaste with fluoride. This is because fluoride helps to remineralise and strengthen tooth enamel. You can also use a fluoride gel. You should also avoid using a hard toothbrush or scrubbing your teeth vigorously. Learn more about proper tooth-brushing techniques in this blog post. Flossing regularly will help you remove food particles from between your teeth that you can't reach with a toothbrush. Drinking plenty of water helps flush out bacteria and other bugs that don't belong in your mouth.