A beautiful smile is a powerful tool for expressing emotion. But the best smiles are those that are strong and healthy. Our teeth are naturally strong and durable, and with modern dentistry, there’s little reason why you can’t keep them that way throughout life.
Most people don’t realize quite how durable their teeth are and how much they do for us until they get a cavity and no longer work well. Your dentist in Summerville can easily repair cavities with tooth-colored fillings, but here are a few things you may not know about how durable your teeth are, and how you can keep them that way.
Tooth Enamel Is Harder Than Bone
The outer surface of your tooth is called dental enamel, and it’s the hardest substance in your body—even harder than bone. Tooth enamel is durable and resistant because it’s about 96 percent mineral, the highest percentage of any tissue in your body.
Your Dental Bite Is Strong Too
When you bite down, your jaws exert about 200 pounds of pressure. Because it’s so strong, you may be tempted to use your teeth as in ways they weren’t meant to be used, like opening packages. Your Summerville dentist will tell you this is one of the worst habits if you want to preserve your teeth.
Teeth Can Last for Decades
Your teeth are so strong and durable and can outlast you by decades. Ancient dental remains enable us to learn a lot about the way our forbearers lived thousands of years ago.
Teeth Can’t Heal Themselves
Dental enamel is durable, but it's not indestructible. When teeth become decayed, they won’t heal themselves. Fortunately, our dentist in Lincolnville, SC is qualified to give your teeth the proper treatment, whether that is tooth-colored fillings, a root canal, or gum treatment. Never wait to seek dental care if you experience painful or broken teeth.
Your Dentist Can Help Keep Your Teeth Strong
Your teeth can last you a lifetime, but they need regular maintenance. Brushing twice a day and flossing once removes bacteria-filled plaque that builds up on your teeth and causes cavities and gum disease. Combining your efforts with professional dental cleanings and exams in Lincolnville at least twice a year is the best way to keep your teeth in their robust and healthy state.
If you’re asking, “How can I find the best dentist near me to keep my smile healthy?” The answer is to call Azalea Dental. Book a dental exam with Dr. Thomas Riley in the 29483 area so we can determine the best way to keep your teeth strong and healthy.