What does “Enamel” mean?
Enamel is the hard outer layer that covers the crown of the tooth. It protects the inner dentin and pulp, and also affects the color and light transmission of the tooth.
Hard but not re-growing tissue
Enamel is a protective layer that withstands chewing forces and external stimuli. It can nevertheless be damaged by decay, acid erosion, friction, and tooth grinding. Remineralization of an early demineralized area differs from regrowth of enamel that has been removed or broken away. Enamel covers the crown, while cementum covers the root surface.
Why check enamel in aesthetic treatment
When considering whitening, check not only for discoloration but also for wear, cracks, and cavities. When bonding veneers or resin, you must also check the remaining tooth tissue and the surface to be bonded. Even if your teeth appear white on the outside, the thickness or health of the enamel is not the same.
How to protect enamel in daily life
Brush thoroughly with fluoride toothpaste and clean between teeth. Review habits such as frequently sipping acidic drinks or biting hard objects. If you notice sensitivity or thinning tooth edges, check the cause before treatment intended to mask the color.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will enamel once lost grow back to its original thickness?
If enamel is worn away or removed and loses its shape, it will not grow back to its original thickness. A distinction must be made between remineralization of the initial demineralized area and regeneration of missing tooth tissue.
If you have enamel, won’t you get cavities?
Enamel can also be demineralized by acid and cause cavities. It is necessary to use fluoride, manage hygiene and eating habits, and check according to the condition of the lesion.
Why check the enamel when bonding veneers?
Conditions to consider vary depending on whether the surface to be bonded is enamel or dentin. The remaining tissue and extent of removal required are identified in the treatment plan.
Enamel: 3 things to check during treatment
Please review the questions to ask before deciding on treatment and the treatment standards of TU Dental Clinic.
- Preservation of natural teeth
Does the clinic differentiate between remaining enamel and the extent of treatment needed?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic examines the remaining tooth tissue and determines the scope of treatment by distinguishing between functionally necessary treatment and aesthetic adjustments.
TU’s natural tooth preservation treatment philosophy - Sufficient understanding
Does the clinic distinguish remineralization from regrowth of tooth tissue that has been removed?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsAt TU Dental Clinic, we check the tooth structure, occlusion, and gum condition. If there are any terms you are unfamiliar with, please ask questions during consultation.
TU’s natural tooth preservation treatment philosophy - A choice suited to your condition
Is treatment determined based on the cause of wear, erosion, and cavities?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic determines the scope of treatment by checking the tooth structure and bite, gum condition, and existing treatment history.
TU’s natural tooth preservation treatment philosophy
