About Enamel
About Enamel
Understanding Tooth Enamel
Tooth enamel is the hard, visible, outermost covering of your teeth. The colour of healthy enamel varies from light yellow to a grey or blue-like white. It’s the hardest substance in the human body and contains a high percentage of minerals.
Did you know?
Enamel has an average thickness of 2-3mm, yet it can effectively protect the sensitive inner layers of teeth from exposure to hot, cold and acidic foods that can lead to sensitivity.
Since tooth enamel contains no living cells, it lacks the ability to regrow. Once it’s lost, it cannot regenerate—leaving the softer layer underneath less well protected. If left to progress, it can be lost altogether in certain areas, exposing the underlying dentine.
Acid in our food and drink is a leading cause of enamel wear. Many acidic foods and drinks that make up our everyday diets – like soft drinks, fruits and fruit juices, salad dressings and wine – can dissolve tooth enamel over time. This process is called acid erosion or erosive tooth wear, and approximately 1 in every 3 young adults is already showing signs of it.
Keeping enamel strong is important to maintaining good oral health. By taking simple steps every day, you can help protect your teeth from the effects of acid erosion.
ABOUT ENAMEL
