Enamel
What is tooth enamel?
The hardest substance in your body is not bone, nor is it your biceps: enamel holds that title! It covers the main part of the teeth, the dentin (or tooth bone), and protects it. Tooth enamel is a mixture of calcium, phosphorus, sodium and magnesium, also called hydroxyapatite. Since it consists of dead cells, it does not contain any nerve tissue and is therefore very resistant. For this reason, however, it cannot repair itself if it cracks or splinters. When this protective layer, up to 2.5 millimetres thick, is broken, our teeth are no longer adequately protected against decay, wear and irritation.
Why is tooth enamel so important?
The enamel of the tooth forms its natural protective shell. It protects your teeth from irritation, damage, the effects of temperature and caries. If this cover is no longer intact, various effects can occur. In addition to pain and hypersensitivity, there is always an increased susceptibility to caries.
Since your teeth are exposed to daily attacks by acidic food components, it is important to take care of them. Although the enzymes in your saliva neutralise the pH value and thus protect your teeth and enamel, you can also actively influence the condition of your enamel.
How does enamel degradation become noticeable?
Often, cracks, chips, notches, obvious discolouration or excessive temperature sensitivity of the teeth are signs that your enamel is being worn away. As it is responsible for the natural whiteness of your teeth, the yellowish appearance of the dentin also becomes more prominent as the enamel content decreases.
Enamel: What strengthens it
When shopping for food, try to buy products that are low in acid and high in minerals. Maybe you'll soon be eating whole wheat bread instead of chocolates, or coconut oil instead of palm oil. Toothpastes can also be helpful. Have you tried our SuperCoco with coconut extract?
Tooth enamel: what harms it
First and foremost, acidic drinks or foods take a toll on tooth enamel. Like iced tea and cola, supposedly healthy fruit juice also contains a good portion of fruit acid. The result: the pH value of the saliva drops and valuable minerals are dissolved out of the enamel. The sad result: the teeth become decalcified and sooner or later develop cavities. Heavy consumption of acidic foods can thus be the cause of tooth erosion, the breakdown of tooth enamel - and thus caries.
Furthermore, heartburn or stomach burn are counterproductive for the preservation of your tooth enamel. Dry mouth, genetic disorders and gastrointestinal problems can also have negative effects, as can medications such as aspirin and antihistamines.
Whitening toothpastes containing titanium dioxide are another factor that can cause tooth erosion. Long-term use can also lead to even more discolouration. If whitening is a topic of interest to you, we have more information for you.
How do I preserve tooth enamel?
Brushing your teeth is the classic way to prevent tooth decay. Brushing your teeth every day helps to preserve the enamel and protect your teeth from decay and other diseases. Furthermore, choosing the right toothpaste is a crucial point. Our toothpastes from happybrush all contain a sodium fluoride content of 1450ppm, which is recommended for adults. In general, however, brushing with fluoride toothpaste makes your teeth more resistant to acids and may even help reverse tooth decay at a very early stage.
Gargling with fluoride mouthwash and using a fluoride gel can be alternatives to fluoride toothpaste. Why not talk to your dentist at your next prophylaxis about which is the best option for you?
Another crucial factor in preserving tooth enamel is proper brushing technique. Especially in older patients, enamel cracks and wedge-shaped defects can be attributed to incorrect brushing. Therefore, the basic rule is: Do not apply too much pressure when brushing your teeth! You can find more detailed information on the correct brushing technique here.
Do I have too little enamel?
We have already listed the signs of enamel loss that you can easily recognise. Cracks, sensitivity and yellowish teeth can be the first signs. However, as these can vary from person to person, it is best to ask your dentist!