{"id":129,"date":"2024-08-14T10:58:00","date_gmt":"2024-08-14T10:58:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.shorewoodfamilydentistry.com\/blog\/?p=129"},"modified":"2025-11-18T13:58:38","modified_gmt":"2025-11-18T13:58:38","slug":"how-tooth-enamel-can-last-a-lifetime","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.shorewoodfamilydentistry.com\/blog\/2024\/08\/14\/how-tooth-enamel-can-last-a-lifetime\/","title":{"rendered":"Sturdy Smile Layers: How Tooth Enamel Can Last a Lifetime"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Given their size, lots of folks think human teeth are really fragile. It\u2019s a natural thought – your pearly whites can seem downright dainty compared to your other body parts. However, these bits of your mouth are actually sturdier than you\u2019d think. Current research now shows that tooth enamel can last a lifetime, at least if you have the proper habits<\/a>. Learn more about said finding in this summary from your local Shorewood dentist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Remind Me: What\u2019s Tooth Enamel?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Before jumping into things, you should review the basics about enamel. Grasping those facts will help you see why the new research is important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In essence, enamel is the protective outer covering of all your teeth. It\u2019s mostly made of calcium and phosphorus that bond to form tiny, ultra-strong crystals for your smile. Thanks to this makeup, enamel shields each tooth\u2019s crown \u2013 the part above your gums \u2013 from cavities and other oral damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your oral health takes a severe dive when you don\u2019t have enamel. Without it, the underlying layer of your teeth (i.e., the dentin) becomes exposed. That effect often leads to cavities and tooth sensitivity, which can only be treated with fillings and dental crowns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Can Enamel Last a Lifetime?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Given how essential it is, a recent study on enamel has good news. It turns out this tooth layer is pretty strong and can last a lifetime.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The relevant research was published in the journal Nature Communications back in 2019. At that time, physics professor Pupa Gilbert and her team used advanced methods to look closely at human enamel. They found that its crystals aren\u2019t perfectly aligned \u2013 they\u2019re oriented in ways that deflect cracks and other damage. Due to this deflecting effect, enamel has the strength to last a lifetime if nothing goes wrong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Of course, this enamel research has major implications for oral health. Its findings imply you can avoid cavities and tooth loss with the right lifestyle!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Can You Do to Help It Last?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you really want to help your enamel last, you could do a few things. These include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n