As you probably know, your teeth are extremely important to the health of your mouth, but did you know that they’re also very important to the health of your body? You also know that your teeth play an important role in chewing and speaking. But, do you know what your teeth are made up of or what you could do to care for your teeth? As you may have guessed, knowing the anatomy of your teeth may give you the knowledge you need to take better care of them.
For instance, the outermost layer of your teeth is known as enamel. This is the hard, white part of your tooth. The next layer is called dentin, which is made up of living cells and secretes a hard, mineral substance. The next layer, known as pulp, is much softer and holds the bloods vessels and nerves of your tooth. Next, is your cementum, which is a layer of connective tissues that binds the roots of your teeth firmly to your gums and jawbone. Finally, you have the periodontal ligament, which holds the tooth to the jaw.
Again, this knowledge can help you protect the health of your teeth. For instance, you’ve been told that you need to brush your teeth for two minutes at a time twice a day. Similarly, you’ve probably been told that you should visit our dentist once every six months. However, did you know that brushing and flossing are important for protecting your enamel? Did you know that if your enamel breaks down, the inner layers of your teeth could be attacked—leading to cavities, gum disease, or even sensitive teeth.
If you’re worried about the health of your teeth, please don’t hesitate to contact us soon. Dr. Mark Andrews and our team will be happy to offer you personalized advice. If you’d like to schedule an appointment with us, please don’t hesitate to contact Mark Andrews, D.D.S.1 at 425-821-8100. We’re eager to hear from you.