{"id":204,"date":"2020-09-21T19:08:39","date_gmt":"2020-09-21T19:08:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.dentist-tappan.com\/blog\/?p=204"},"modified":"2020-10-21T19:12:15","modified_gmt":"2020-10-21T19:12:15","slug":"factors-determine-how-long-tooth-enamel-lasts","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.dentist-tappan.com\/blog\/2020\/09\/21\/factors-determine-how-long-tooth-enamel-lasts\/","title":{"rendered":"What Factors Determine How Long Tooth Enamel Lasts?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Tooth enamel is one of the most fascinating parts of the human body. It is even harder than bone, and it provides powerful protection for the sensitive dental structures beneath it. However, it is at somewhat of a disadvantage because it cannot regenerate itself if it suffers serious harm. How, then, can it last so long? Let\u2019s talk about the remarkable secret behind tooth enamel\u2019s longevity and discuss some ways in which you can protect this precious portion of your smile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Tooth Enamel\u2019s Microscopic Structure<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A recent study<\/a> set out to discover how tooth enamel is able to last a lifetime. The researchers used advanced imaging technology to examine the enamel\u2019s microscopic structure. They already knew that tooth enamel is composed of enamel rods, and tiny hydroxyapatite crystals compose the individual rods. However, they uncovered a new fact about the tiny crystals within the rods; they are slightly misaligned. The misalignment in the studied samples could be anywhere from 1 degree to 30 degrees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Upon further experimentation, the scientists discovered that the misalignment in the crystals serves a useful purpose. When one crystal gets cracked, the misalignment prevents the crack from spreading to nearby crystals. Hence, it is reasonable to assume that the microscopic architecture of tooth enamel is one of the biggest reasons why it has the potential to last a lifetime despite constant exposure to the pressures of chewing a variety of foods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Protecting Your Tooth Enamel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There\u2019s no doubt that tooth enamel is durable. However, its microscopic structure is only one of the factors that determines how long it lasts. For example, some people are born with naturally thin enamel that increases their risk of cavities. A person\u2019s diet and other daily habits can also have a bearing on how long their enamel lasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are some tips to help you sure that your remarkable enamel endures for as long as possible:<\/p>\n\n\n\n