Albuquerque NM Dentist Discusses the Importance of Tooth Enamel

Did you know that the hardest substance in your entire body is found on your teeth? Enamel, the white outer coating forms a robust defense against bacteria, protecting teeth from decay. However, enamel does not make teeth invulnerable. In fact, your Albuquerque NM dentist, Dr. Mark Miller, notes that several different things may be responsible for enamel loss. By working against these causes, you can protect your enamel, and by extension, your oral health.

Enemies of Enamel

1. Bacteria. Harmful oral bacteria assault your teeth on a daily basis. They attach themselves to teeth by forming a clear, sticky film called plaque. Once attached to teeth, the bacteria can consume lingering sugar in the mouth. Consuming sugar causes these bacteria to give off an acid byproduct that is capable of removing the enamel from teeth.
2. Bruxism (teeth grinding). Bruxism puts teeth under significant strain as they slide against one another for prolonged periods of time. The constant scraping and clenching can strip away enamel, leaving teeth in a vulnerable condition.
3. Acidic products. Even the foods and drinks that you consume may cause damage to your enamel if you are not careful. Occasional consumption of acidic foods and drinks is not likely to result in enamel loss. However, habitual consumption certainly can. Soda and coffee drinkers may lose enamel as a result of the frequent consumption of their preferred beverages. You should, therefore, carefully monitor your diet to ensure that you do not bring harm to your teeth by overindulging in acidic products.

Dangers of Enamel Loss

When teeth lose their enamel, they lose a valuable defense against bacteria. With enamel gone, dentin, the yellow-hued underlayer, is exposed. Dentin is softer than enamel and also porous, making it a poor defense against bacteria. As a result, teeth that lose their enamel may develop cavities more rapidly. They will also be left with a yellowish hue, owing to the natural color of dentin.

Structural damage is another danger that arises when teeth lose their enamel. As the hardest substance in the body, enamel provides strength to teeth. Without enamel, teeth are considerably weaker and may, therefore, crack or break when they come under strain.

About Snowpark Dental: Dr. Mark Miller of Snowpark Dental is a respected dentist with extensive training in implantology. Patients can contact Dr. Miller by calling (505) 596-4479 to schedule an appointment or a consultation.

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