Here at Endodontic Specialists of Colorado, we commonly hear patients talk about how they need root canal therapy because of their soft teeth. We find that our patients have heard about their condition from well-meaning family members or parents.

According to folklore, patients with soft teeth are more susceptible to dental cavities and tooth decay. Unfortunately for our patients, soft teeth are actually a dental myth. But, there is some truth to the fable.

Not sure what to believe about the condition of your teeth? We’ll unpack the myth of soft teeth and explain what measures you should take to protect your smile.

The Myth of Soft Teeth

Patients who are convinced they have soft teeth most likely spent a significant amount of time in their dentist’s office for various treatments. Or, they may incorrectly assume that a major life change or certains events –– like pregnancy, breastfeeding, a diagnosis of diabetes as an adult, new allergies, and others –– contributed to their increase in dental health issues.

But here’s the deal: most people who suffer from frequent tooth decay or dental cavities actually have normal teeth and enamel, while the number of people who suffer from weak or thin tooth enamel is very low.

If you have teeth that are unable to withstand everyday wear and tear, a good first step is to consider your oral hygiene habits. Neglecting proper dental hygiene habits is the most common cause of decay and cavities. Because of this, many dental diseases are completely avoidable.

That being said, there are a handful of patients who truly do have soft teeth. Having thin or improperly formed tooth enamel comes with a condition called amelogenesis imperfecta. This condition makes the enamel look uneven, brown, and full of pits and grooves. People who suffer from this condition are more vulnerable to dental cavities, especially if they frequently expose their teeth to acidic foods and beverages.

So while soft teeth are a myth, amelogenesis imperfecta is very real, albeit somewhat rare.

How to Keep Your Teeth Healthy and Strong

Remember that even people with totally normal teeth develop dental cavities and tooth decay as a result of plaque buildup and bacteria on the teeth and around the gums. These bacteria are the result of improper oral hygiene techniques or from sharing toothbrushes, utensils, or even pacifiers.

Regardless of whether or not you actually have soft teeth, there are plenty of ways to keep your teeth healthy and strong. The best way for anyone to avoid dental disease is by practicing good dental hygiene at home. This means brushing at least twice a day for two minutes at a time with fluoride toothpaste. You should also be flossing daily and visiting your general dentist every six months for a cleaning and a checkup.

Additionally, your diet makes a big impact on your overall dental health. Eat a well-balanced diet and try to avoid overly sugary foods and beverages that invite dental plaque.

If you’re unsure why your teeth seem especially susceptible to tooth decay and cavities, talk to your dentist about your family history and lifestyle. Your general dentist will be able to suggest several ways to help protect your smile for years to come!

Our team of specialized doctors make it their mission to help change the lives of our patients by restoring their smiles. Whether you need root canal therapy due to tooth decay, dental trauma, or infection, we can help. We prioritize our patients’ comfort from the moment they walk in the door. Ready to start your journey to a healthy, pain-free smile? Contact us to schedule your evaluation today!