You’ve probably heard the word “enamel” thrown around by your dentist or even on TV commercials. But what is it and why is healthy enamel so important? We’ve got all the answers you’re looking for below.
What Is Enamel?
Enamel acts as a protective shield for your teeth. That shield is what protects the nerves of your teeth from experiencing pain and sensitivities each time you eat, drink and consume anything. This is why having healthy enamel is so important. Enamel is extremely strong – it’s the strongest substance in the body, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t susceptible to damage and erosion. Taking good care of your tooth enamel is so important to continue consuming food and beverages without impacting those sensitive nerves.
Taking Proper Care of Your Enamel
Certain foods and drinks that are high in sugar or acidic can begin to wear away at the enamel over time. Without moderation and proper oral hygiene, that defensive shield that’s protecting your tooth nerves can begin to thin out, making it painful when you consume certain items, such as hot tea or cold ice cream. This is where preventative care comes into play.
Preventative Care
Reducing or eliminating sugary and acidic foods and beverages from your diet is the first step to maintaining healthy enamel. Hard foods such as candy can also be damaging as they can crack or chip your teeth. Try to replace items such as these with healthier options instead. For example, rather than consume soda, opt for some herbal tea with natural sweetener instead.
Make Oral Hygiene A Priority
In addition to modifying your diet, practicing proper oral care daily is crucial for maintaining strong, healthy enamel. Brushing your teeth at least twice each day is important since it helps remove bacteria that thrive on sugar and eat away at your tooth enamel. Flossing is also necessary to remove particles that are hard to reach and linger along the gum line.
Additionally, always attend regularly scheduled check-ups with your dentist to give your teeth that thorough inspection and cleaning they need every few months. This allows your dentist to monitor your teeth for any signs of damage that may require immediate preventative measures and attention.
If you’re wondering why healthy enamel is so important, just remember that it’s what shields your teeth (and you) from enduring painful sensations when you eat or drink. It’s what allows you to enjoy the foods that you love pain-free. So always make the time and effort to do what you can to modify your diet, reduce sugar and acidic items, and practice good oral care each day.
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