Your teeth are made up of four major tissues: Enamel, Dentin, Cementum, and pulp. The pulp is the soft tissue found in the center of all teeth. This is where the nerve tissue and blood vessels are. Cementum is the on the surface of the tooth root. It is attached to the jaw bone by fibers (both periodontal ligaments and the gum tissue). The Dentin is the yellow layer that is under the enamel. Dentin is a much softer tissue than that of the Enamel and prone to decay when exposed to bacteria. Enamel is the hardest and most mineralized part of the human body. It is designed to be tough and durable. Enamel is your tooth’s last line of defense. Unlike other tissues in the body, enamel does not regenerate.
To help maintain the enamel on your teeth it is important to maintain good oral hygiene habits: brushing, flossing, mouthwash and regular visits to your dentist. Preventing the decay means protecting the enamel by keeping your teeth clean. Excess food that is trapped on and in between teeth can quickly turn into bacteria that can break down the enamel and eventually the entire tooth. Tooth decay is a preventable disease. So do your part and exercise your right for a clean and bright smile!