{"id":289,"date":"2025-09-03T23:59:24","date_gmt":"2025-09-03T23:59:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.smileyfamilydentistry.com\/blog\/?p=289"},"modified":"2025-10-17T00:01:22","modified_gmt":"2025-10-17T00:01:22","slug":"can-tooth-enamel-really-last-a-lifetime","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.smileyfamilydentistry.com\/blog\/can-tooth-enamel-really-last-a-lifetime\/","title":{"rendered":"Can Tooth Enamel Really Last a Lifetime?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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If you or someone close to you has broken a bone in the past, then you may know how it can be repaired over time. While it might’ve taken a while, the human body can be fascinating in how it can recover. However, your enamel doesn’t have this same ability, but can it still last a lifetime? Keep reading to learn more about your teeth<\/a> and how you can take good care of them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Is Tooth Enamel Made Of?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Before you can dive into the longevity of your enamel, it\u2019s important to understand what this outer layer is made from. In short, it\u2019s mostly calcium and phosphorus. This combination forms hydroxyapatite crystals, which are the hardest substance your body can make. That means that they are a bit tougher than your bones, but that doesn\u2019t mean they are invincible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bacteria in your mouth can erode it due to an acid they produce. If you don\u2019t follow proper oral hygiene, then plaque can linger and weaken your teeth. Over time, this exposes the dentin underneath, causing cavities and sensitivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can Enamel Last a Lifetime?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The good news is that enamel can last a lifetime! This is all thanks to how the hydroxyapatite crystals are aligned. Dr. Pupa Gilbert led research that dug deeper into how the top layer of your teeth looks. Using a computer model, they were able to simulate the pressure that comes with eating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During one test, they set up each crystal so that they were “properly” aligned. However, with one edge touching the other, the force would cause cracks that would appear relatively easily. However, when they were slightly misaligned, the damage would be prevented and deflected. It wasn’t able to spread, so this perfect imperfection is how your enamel can last for decades to come. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Can I Take Care of My Teeth?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As was mentioned above, plaque can harm your smile, so it’s important to fight against it. Here are some easy tips you should follow:<\/p>\n\n\n\n