Teeth are the crucial bodily structures that allow us to chew properly and smile beautifully, and they work in a variety of amazing ways. Unfortunately, many people do not take proper care of their teeth because they do not know how to do so or they do not know enough about how important they are. Here’s a quick look at a few of the most interesting facts about teeth to help you get excited for excellent oral healthcare.
Teeth Are Comprised of Three Principal Layers
Teeth are more complicated than many people realize. Your pearly whites have three layers, those being:
- The enamel: The outermost layer is made of enamel, a porous substance with a pearlescent appearance that is the hardest material in the human body. This layer serves to protect the tooth from damage while giving it the strength it needs to tear and grind through all sorts of foods.
- The dentin: The second layer of a tooth is a system of tiny, hollow tubes called dentin. This material helps support the structure of the tooth while carrying sensory data regarding heat and pressure changes from the enamel to the pulp.
- The pulp: The core of your tooth is made up of soft tissues called pulp. This structure includes blood vessels and nerve endings, and it helps the tooth form in its early stages of development and provides the brain with sensory information. In cases of severe throbbing toothache, the problem is usually caused by pulp infection.
Enamel Can’t Regrow Itself, but It Can Remineralize
While enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, lost sections of it will not grow back on their own. This means that chips, cracks, cavities, and other forms of dental damage will not get better without the help of a qualified dentist. However, while teeth cannot regrow lost enamel, they can reinforce existing enamel by drawing minerals and other nutrients from the saliva in the mouth. This process plays a crucial role in keeping teeth healthy for life.
Acid Is a Menace to Your Oral Health
Many foods and beverages contain high concentrations of acid that can be harmful to your oral health. When acids make contact with your enamel, they immediately begin to erode its structure, which leaves your teeth more vulnerable to injuries and infections. To make matters worse, the harmful oral bacteria that feed on sugars and starches also excrete acid as a waste product. A few common items that are high in acid include:
- Soda pop
- Sour candy
- Citrus
- Hot sauce
- Anything with vinegar
- Fruit juice
The best ways to keep your teeth happy and healthy for life are to practice excellent oral hygiene, make smart eating decisions, wear a mouthguard when appropriate, and see your dentist for routine exams and cleanings. Consulting with your oral health professional can help you understand how to maintain excellent oral health and a gorgeous smile that you’ll be proud to show off.
About the Author
Dr. Laura Gramse earned her dental degree at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and has received extensive training in dental implants and sleep dentistry. She is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Massachusetts Dental Society, and the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. Her offices in Springfield and Palmer offer general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To book your next dental appointment, contact her practice on the web.