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It’s called dental enamel, and it’s the hard calcified layer on the crowns of your teeth that protects everything underneath and makes your smile white. Unlike superhero shields, enamel isn’t virtually indestructible; it can be worn away by plaque, acid and time.

To protect your enamel and the health of your teeth, you need to know what’s in your food. Foods high in sugar will leave plaque on your teeth, which will erode the enamel if ignored. Certain foods and beverages such as citrus fruits, tart candies, sodas and fruit juices can create an acidic setting in your mouth that will wear down enamel. Some symptoms of enamel loss are tooth sensitivity, rounded teeth, discoloration, transparency and cracks on the surface of your teeth.

As you get older, your enamel becomes tired and weak. It’s important to take good care of your mouth every day of your life to keep your enamel strong for as long as possible. Visiting the dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings extends the life of your enamel.

A strong shield is the best defense, so take good care of yours. To learn more about your enamel shield, contact Great Lakes Family Dental at 517.787.0550 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Asha Kinra. You can find us in Jackson, Michigan.