Toothache? Go to the dentist. Hair damage? Go to the dentist.
Most of us book a dental appointment if we are experiencing any kind of pain, inflammation or other concern inside the mouth. But what’s happening on top of your head could also say a lot about your oral health.
New findings have discovered an interesting link between the condition of our hair and its impact on our teeth health. The research suggests if you’re experiencing a problem in one area, it’s likely to cause problems in the other.
How are your teeth and hair connected?
The link comes down to a protein called keratin.
Basically, the living cells in our skin produce a protective layer made up of keratin proteins. The more keratin proteins found, the stronger the cells. These cells make up the tissues for hair, skin, and nails. So it comes as no surprise that for strong hair, skin and nails, the cells need to have keratin proteins present.
Approximately 90% of hair strands are made up of keratin. Hair loss, thinning, brittle or split ends, frizziness and premature graying are all signs of a keratin deficiency.
While teeth are made up of four different types of tissue, keratin is found in the outer layer - the enamel.
An in depth study using genetic data from 386 children and 706 adults further proves the presence of keratin in enamel and the impact it has on maintaining the structure and strength of teeth.
The research declares, “epithelial hair keratins, which are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the sheaths that support the hair shaft, are expressed in the enamel organ and are essential organic components of mature enamel.”
“A functional keratin network is required for the mechanical stability of tooth enamel.”
Why is tooth enamel so important?
Tooth enamel acts like a shield for our teeth. It helps protect the inner layers of the tooth from the effects of sugar, acid and germs. The inner layers of the teeth are also highly sensitive, which is why enamel is vital in allowing us to enjoy hot or cold foods and drink without discomfort. If you have eroded enamel, you are more likely to experience sensitivity and decay.
Looking after your enamel is so important for overall oral health. If your enamel gets damaged, it cannot be replaced, therefore exposing the tooth to stressors such as decay, breaks and sensitivity.
You may be wondering why the bones in our bodies can repair themselves, yet our teeth cannot?
Well, a common misunderstanding is that teeth are bones. While they do share some similarities, teeth are made of non-living cells. So when a tooth breaks or chips, it will not repair itself the way bones do.
That’s why it’s so important to look after your enamel with good oral hygiene practices, a balanced diet, plenty of water and regular dental check ups.
Here at Mulgrave Dental Group, we recommend visiting the dentists every 6 months to keep on top of your oral health.
Is it about time you booked an appointment?
Call us on (03) 9562 5156 to book in your oral health check up.
