12 october 2024

Tooth enamel: All you need to know about its importance, health and protection

dental enamel

Covering the surface of the tooth, enamel appears as a solid, mineralized coat. It protects the dental structure from external attacks and gives it its characteristic hardness. 💪 It is an essential element in protecting teeth against cavities. Here's a detailed guide to the importance, health and protection of enamel.

Anatomy and composition of dental enamel


As a result of a long training process, different elements enter the structure of dental enamel.

The microscopic structure of enamel


Microscopically, dental enamel has a complex structure composed of hydroxyapatite crystals, canaliculi and enamel-dentinal prisms . Hydroxyapatite crystals arrange themselves into regular arrangements and form a crystal structure. Canaliculi appear as tiny channels that pass through the enamel and provide communication between ameloblast cells . 🧫


Enamel-dentin prisms are cylindrical structures that pass through the thickness of the enamel and penetrate the underlying dentin. They are formed by the alignment of hydroxyapatite crystals and are responsible for the striped appearance observed under the microscope. 🔬

The chemical components of enamel


Chemically, dental enamel mainly contains hydroxyapatite . Representing approximately 96% of its chemical makeup, it is a crystalline mineral made up of calcium, phosphorus, oxygen and hydrogen . Hydroxyapatite crystals are responsible for the hardness and strength of enamel. 💎


Besides hydroxyapatite, enamel contains other chemical components, such as water and organic matrix . 💦 Also included in its constitution are small quantities of inorganic substances, including fluoride ions, carbonate ions and traces of different metal cations .

The function of tooth enamel


Thanks to its constitution, enamel fulfills several beneficial functions for the tooth.

Protection of the tooth against dental caries


Due to its hardness and strength , tooth enamel forms an outer protective barrier that covers the crown of the teeth. 👑 It is the most mineralized component of the human body. It offers great resistance to erosion due to chewing and chemical attacks on the oral cavity.


Its dense crystalline structure and its chemical composition rich in hydroxyapatite make the enamel strong and waterproof . Healthy, it resists bacterial attacks, which helps prevent the formation of cavities. 🦠

This therefore avoids all types of problems such as rotten teeth , or even brown spots on the teeth , black teeth , brown teeth or even gray teeth , etc.

Role in chewing and digestion


As the outer layer of teeth, enamel is involved in the process of chewing , the first step in digestion. It protects the most sensitive dental tissues, such as dentin and dental pulp, from damage caused by chewing forces . 👄


Enamel helps prevent premature tooth wear by resisting abrasion. Although it is not directly involved in the chemical digestion of food , it plays an indirect role.

Sensitivity and transmission of sensations


Deprived of nerve endings, enamel lacks direct sensitivity. The sensations reach it through other dental tissues such as: dentin, the enamel-dentin boundary and the dental pulp . 🦷


Located beneath the enamel, dentin contains tiny channels called dentinal tubules. When stimuli reach the tubules, it stimulates the odontoblasts and nerve signals reach the nerves located in the dental pulp. 💥 The junction between enamel and dentin, called the enamel-dentin boundary, is also a sensitive area .

Formation and development of dental enamel


The installation of tooth enamel takes place in several stages. It grows and gains strength over time.

The process of amelogenesis


Amelogenesis is a complex process, involving the participation of specialized cells called ameloblasts . Ameloblasts secrete an organic matrix called pre-enamel. ☝️


This matrix contains specific proteins, including amelogenins, enamelins and tuftelins , which play an essential role in the formation and mineralization of this structure. Ameloblasts go through a phase of differentiation and progressive maturation. This is followed by the mineralization of the enamel matrix and the maturation of the ameloblasts . 🪨

Factors that influence the development of tooth enamel


Various causes of different natures (genetic, environmental and nutritional) influence the development of dental enamel. Studies show that genetic variations are likely to affect the quality and architecture of this dental structure. 🧬


Mutations in certain genes involved in amelogenesis can lead to abnormalities such as amelogenesis imperfecta. This is characterized by poor quality enamel . 😓 Deficiencies in certain nutrients, such as calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D and trace elements, can lead to training defects.

Problems related to tooth enamel


Exposed to poor oral hygiene, enamel can suffer from multiple problems.

Enamel erosion

Enamel erosion corresponds to the progressive wear of this dental structure under the action of acids of extrinsic or intrinsic origin. The first types come from acidic foods and drinks. The latter are linked to gastrointestinal problems such as acid reflux or frequent vomiting.

Acids in the stomach can travel up into the mouth and contact the teeth, causing enamel to erode. Wear and tear of this mineral can cause other problems, including tooth sensitivity, which often leads to tooth decay .

Tooth decay


Tooth decay often occurs in people with poor oral routines . It is the consequence of a metabolism undergone by the sugars present in certain foods, under the action of dental plaque bacteria. This gives rise to acids, which attack tooth enamel. 💣


Over time, acidity erodes tooth enamel and creates a small cavity in the tooth, known as decay. Without proper treatment, cavities progress deeper into the teeth.

Enamel hypoplasia and hyperplasia


Hypoplasia refers to a condition that results in thinness, roughness, or depressions in the enamel surface. And hyperplasia is characterized by an increase in the thickness of the formation. 😥


These problems can result from a variety of causes, including genetic abnormalities, infections, trauma . They are sometimes the consequence of exposure of the enamel to toxic substances during its formation. 🧪 In children, these pathologies can also reflect nutritional deficiencies or systemic diseases .

Dental fluorosis


Dental fluorosis occurs when the tooth is exposed to excessive concentrations of fluoride during development. Fluoride is a mineral beneficial for dental health, when it is in reasonable quantities. 🌡


The fluoride contained in toothpastes is a derivative of fluoride, and an essential compound for impeccable oral hygiene. Excessive exposure to fluoride during tooth formation can change the structure of enamel .

Prevention and care of tooth enamel


To maintain healthy enamel, certain treatments and preventive measures should be included in your routine.

Nutrition and tooth enamel health


A balanced and nutritious diet contributes to the development of enamel and its maintenance in good health. This involves avoiding certain foods, especially those high in sugar and acid. Even more so if you have teeth sensitive to basic sugar . 🍭


The sugars present in certain meals and drinks are metabolized by the action of bacteria present in the mouth. From this reaction, acids are born which harm the enamel while increasing the acidity of the mouth . 🍋 For the good health of this dental protective layer, eat enough fruits and vegetables as well as foods rich in calcium and phosphorus .

Furthermore, did you know that it is possible to reduce the risk of periodontal disease by adapting your diet? In particular by knowing the foods to avoid to prevent periodontitis .

The importance of brushing your teeth and using dental floss or interdental brushes


To maintain good oral health, dentists are committed to regular tooth brushing and the use of dental floss or interdental brushes . Brushing your teeth properly is a crucial step in removing plaque. 🪥


The wire and the brush heads complement the action of the brush by removing dental plaque and meal debris lodged between the dental gaps and along the gums.
Learn about the correct way to use interdental brushes beforehand.

It is also necessary to adopt the right actions to strengthen our gums , a more than important element of our mouth!

Although these points can help remove plaque and reduce tartar , to completely eliminate tartar, it is important to have regular scaling at the dentist. We remind you that descaling at home is strongly discouraged and presents significant risks! ⚠️

Washing your teeth properly through effective toothbrushing requires the use of a well-chosen electric or manual toothbrush ! Dentists will tell you to look instead at the benefits of electric toothbrushes . They are divided into two categories, sonic or rotating toothbrushes . 😉

Treatments to strengthen and repair tooth enamel

To improve enamel strength, one solution is to apply topical fluoride . Using dental sealants can also help you protect this tooth structure. The means of prevention act as a barrier against bacteria in the mouth and acids likely to harm enamel. 🥴


Some dental products contain specific ingredients, which promote the remineralization of enamel . 🥳 In some cases, tooth whitening procedures are necessary to improve the appearance of this mineral.

Recent innovations and research on dental enamel


Recent innovations and research on dental enamel mainly aim to develop new approaches to prevention, strengthening and repair .

Advances in bioengineering for enamel regeneration


Researchers are working on methods to stimulate targeted remineralization of enamel , using special materials or products containing remineralizing active ingredients. These approaches aim to strengthen this mineral and prevent cavities more effectively. 😁


Research is also underway to develop methods for bioengineering enamel. That is to say the creation of artificial enamel from biocompatible materials. This could allow the formation to regenerate in the event of wear or damage, providing new treatment options for restoring teeth.

New products for the protection and strengthening of dental enamel


There are new products designed to protect and strengthen tooth enamel. 🛡 This is the case with certain toothpastes, which have the function of strengthening the structure by providing it with minerals such as fluoride, calcium and phosphate .

Remember that fluoride is not bad for your health as long as it is in the right quantity!


There are solutions containing a high concentration of fluoride (fluoride varnish, fluoride mouthwash, sugar-free chewing gum). Strengthening the resistance of enamel, these treatments help prevent cavities. 🙅‍♀️

Looking for the perfect toothbrush?

Say goodbye to bleeding gums and other gum problems thanks to MyVariations' 5 different brushing modes that adapt to your sensitivity! 🖐

filter_Onyx-Black
Electric Toothbrush
From $76.10 $89.00
Shop

Other products that may interest you ...

Image to render
13 august 2024
Leucoplasie buccale – Causes, symptômes et traitement
Vous observez des plaques grisâtres sur vos gencives, joues intérieures, votre langue ou votre palais ? Vous souffrez peut-être d'une leucoplasie buccale ...
Image to render
12 august 2024
Recognizing the Symptoms of Gingivitis: A Complete Guide to Optimal Oral Health
Do you think you have gingivitis but aren't entirely sure? Read this article to know all the symptoms of gingivitis!
Image to render
12 august 2024
Dental Erosion: Causes, Symptoms and Prevention Strategies
Do you notice wear on your teeth? We tell you everything you need to know about dental erosion!
Image to render
30 july 2024
Oral candidiasis or oral thrush: symptoms, causes and treatment?
Do you think you have oral thrush, also called oral candidiasis?
Discover the causes and possible treatments!
Image to render
29 july 2024
Brossage des dents : combien de temps pour être réellement efficace ?
Quel temps faut-il pour réaliser un vrai, un bon brossage de dents ? On vous dit tout !
Image to render
08 june 2024
La cellulite dentaire : symptômes, causes, traitements et prévention
Vous ressentez une douleur au niveau de la mâchoire ou du visage, un gonflement est apparu ou une rougeur ? Vous êtes peut-être victime de cellulite dentaire ! Apprenez-en plus ...
Image to render
08 june 2024
Abcès des gencives : symptômes, causes, traitements, on vous dit tout !
Les abcès des gencives doivent impérativement être pris au sérieux ! Sachez-en plus dans cet article !
Image to render
08 june 2024
Gum infection: understand and act
Vos gencives sont inflammées ? Vous font mal ? Vous avez peut-être une infection de la gencive !
Image to render
03 may 2024
Prévenir la stomatite : conseils et techniques de prévention
Vous avez des douleurs, rouges, gonflements ou même des plaies dans la bouche ? Vous êtes peut-être victime d'une stomatite ! Sachez comment la prévenir grâce à cet article !
Image to render
03 may 2024
How to remove tartar from braces?
Le tartre peut vite s'accumuler dans les appareils dentaires. Sachez comment faire pour éviter cela, et les gingivites que cela pourrait entraîner !
Image to render
17 april 2024
Electric toothbrush from what age?
Does your little wolf ask for an electric toothbrush? Know what to say to him!
Image to render
09 april 2024
Bleeding gums: how to avoid them?
How to avoid bleeding gums?
Image to render
05 april 2024
At what age can my child use an electric toothbrush?
Your children's teeth need special care! Find out which ones in this article!
Image to render
29 february 2024
Gum recession: causes and treatments
Do you notice a reduction in the surface area of ​​your gums? You may be a victim of gum recession!
Image to render
09 february 2024
Gum inflammation: causes, symptoms and treatment
Do you have pain in your gums or notice redness? She may be inflamed! Learn the causes, symptoms and treatments for this common problem!
Image to render
04 february 2024
What type of bristles should you choose for your toothbrush?
Hard, medium or soft bristles for your toothbrush? We tell you everything!
Image to render
05 january 2024
Contraindications for sonic toothbrushes? Things to know
Are you wondering if sonic toothbrushes are right for your needs? We answer you in this article!
Image to render
02 january 2024
How to choose your electric toothbrush?
You want to switch to the electric toothbrush but you don't know what to choose? We explain to you!
Image to render
21 december 2023
Interdental cleaning for optimal oral health
Become an expert in interdental cleaning, the key to a truly clean mouth!
Image to render
15 december 2023
Electric or manual toothbrush: how to choose?
Are you hesitating to switch to an electric toothbrush?
We explain to you what the differences are compared to a manual brush!
Image to render
24 november 2023
White spot on the gums: Causes and treatments
Have you noticed a white spot on your gums? Find out now what it is thanks to this article!
Image to render
12 november 2023
How to recognize periodontitis from gingivitis?
Your gums make you suffer but you don't know if it's gingivitis or periodontitis? MyVariations helps you see things more clearly!
Image to render
12 november 2023
Tooth loosening and rolling back of the gums at the level of the tooth: what treatment?
Receding gums and dental loosening, know what treatment to apply!
Image to render
09 november 2023
Gum pain: how to treat painful gums and find a healthy mouth?
Do you have gum pain? Find out what the cause is and what treatment to adopt!
Image to render
09 november 2023
Electric toothbrushes: rather rotary or sonic technology?
Should we favor an oscillating-rotating electric toothbrush, or a sonic one? We help you make your choice!
Image to render
28 september 2023
Ultimate guide to using an interdental brush for impeccable hygiene.
Here's a summary of everything you need to know about interdental brushes!
Image to render
Santé dentaire 11 september 2023
How to recognize normal gums and keep them healthy?
We tell you everything you need to know about normal, healthy gums and how to preserve their health!
Image to render
04 september 2023
Canker sores on the gums: Causes, prevention and effective treatments
Do you have a canker sore on your gums? Learn what factors can cause these painful lesions, and how to treat them!
Image to render
08 august 2023
Mouth ulcer: causes and treatment!
Do you often have mouth ulcers and don't know where it can come from or how to treat them? We will explain everything to you !
Image to render
31 july 2023
Keeping gums healthy: practical tips and techniques
We give you the keys to keeping healthy gums and taking care of your oral and gingival health in this article!
Image to render
25 july 2023
Everything you need to know about gray teeth: causes, treatment and prevention
Do you have one or more gray teeth and you don't know how to fix it? This article will teach you more about this phenomenon and its solutions!
Image to render
17 july 2023
Gingival abscess: causes and solutions
Do you have a very bad gum and you are afraid that it is an abscess? Learn more about this pathology, its causes and its solutions!
Image to render
21 june 2023
How to Brush Your Teeth Properly: A Step-by-Step Guide to Optimal Oral Hygiene
Be sure to use the right technique for brushing your teeth with this detailed article!
Image to render
14 june 2023
Pimples on the Gum: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments and Prevention
Have you noticed one or more pimples on your gums? Discover in this article what are the causes and remedies!
Image to render
31 may 2023
Xerostomia: Causes, Consequences and Treatments for Optimal Oral Health
Do you very often have dry mouth and don't know where it comes from? Let us tell you more about this common concern!
Image to render
30 may 2023
Periodontitis, foods to avoid
Did you know that you could reduce the risk of periodontitis by adapting your diet? We tell you more here!
Image to render
15 may 2023
Teeth scaling to do at home, a bad idea
Have you thought about trying to do a descaling yourself at home? Find out here the reasons why this is really not a good idea!
Image to render
20 april 2023
Rotten tooth: causes, treatments and prevention!
Do you have one or more rotten teeth? Know how to identify the causes of such a situation, and learn how to deal with it!
Image to render
02 april 2023
White spot on the tooth: cause and solution
Are you complexed by white spots on your teeth? Finally, discover the causes and solutions!
Image to render
16 march 2023
Black dental tartar on the gum: cause and treatment
Do you have black tartar on your gums? Learn what causes it and find the right treatment!
Image to render
08 march 2023
Brown teeth: what are these brown spots due to?
Do you have one or more brown teeth? discover the reasons for this phenomenon and how to overcome it
Image to render
02 march 2023
How to strengthen your gums?
Do you have sensitive gums and are you tired of suffering from them? Learn how to strengthen your gums!