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When you have questions about different things pertaining to your health – especially things you don’t want to discuss publicly – you likely go to the internet for information. And that’s why we’re here! We know that enamel is a widely-used term in the dental world, and if you don’t know what it is, it’s easy to feel like you’re out of the loop.

So today, we thought we’d help you learn what enamel is, so you can better understand your oral health.

What is enamel?
Enamel is what makes your teeth hard and able to chew. Without it, teeth wouldn’t be stable or effective. It also protects the dentin and pulp. Dentin and pulp are the living bundle of nerves and blood vessels in your teeth. Without enamel, your teeth wouldn’t be hard enough to perform any of their current functions.

Going deeper, enamel is a crystalline layer of calcium that replenishes itself on a regular basis. However, if you do too much damage to it – like not brushing – enamel can’t be replaced fast enough to stop infection.

Why do I need to protect it?
If you don’t protect your enamel, you’ll end up with some cavities, and you could end up with gum disease. Good enamel health means good oral health – which is linked to great systemic health as well.

How do I protect it?
The best way to protect your enamel is to follow the advice of our doctor at Cardwell Family Dentistry in Sylva, North Carolina and brush twice daily, while flossing once. Using mouthwash, avoiding soda, and foods high in acid, are all other great things you can do to ensure your enamel stays as healthy as possible.

For more information, or to make an appointment with Dr. Laurin Cardwell, call us today at 828-631-3567.