If you’re like most people, you don’t think much about your teeth until there is a problem with any of them. As it turns out, your teeth are quite unique. There are 10 facts about them that you may have never considered. As you continue reading, a local dentist goes in-depth about the amazing world of your teeth!
#1 – They’re Unique to You Only
Like your fingerprints, you’re the only human on the earth who has teeth just like yours. This is why dental records are sometimes used to identify people.
#2 – There’s Much More Than What You See
The part of your teeth that you’re able to see is the crown, but there is much more to them. About a third of your teeth rest beneath the gums; thus, it’s of the utmost importance to maintain healthy gums.
#3 – ‘32’ is the Magic Number
You have 32 teeth inside your mouth, equally divided in the following manner:
- 8 incisors (front teeth)
- 4 canine teeth (for tearing into food)
- 8 premolars (for chewing food)
- 12 molars (for grinding food)
#4 – The Enamel Has Super-Strength
If you want to find the hardest substance in your body, look no further than your tooth enamel. Made from hardened calcium and phosphate, the enamel helps to protect the sensitive inner parts of your teeth.
#5 – Your Tooth Enamel is Vulnerable to Damage
Because the enamel is so strong, there can be a misconception that it’s invincible. The reality is that it can still be chipped or cracked. It’s also susceptible to damage from overeating sugar and neglecting dental hygiene, as cavities (tiny holes) can form.
#6 – Yellow is Not a Good Sign
If you notice any yellowing of your teeth, it can be a sign that the enamel is either stained or decaying. Another indicator of enamel damage is tooth sensitivity.
#7 – Enamel Doesn’t Grow
One of the reasons that it’s so important to protect your enamel is that it can’t regenerate once damaged. Conversely, the dentin that lies beneath it constantly grows and changes throughout your life.
#8 – Hundreds of Bacteria Live Inside Your Mouth
There are over 300 types of bacteria quietly living inside your mouth. The primary contributor to poor oral health is Streptococcus mutans, which converts sugar into corrosive acids that damage the teeth and gums.
#9 – Plaque is Your Biggest Foe
When you eat or drink, bacteria gather to feed on any remaining debris. Quickly, they can morph into plaque, which is a sticky substance that clings to the teeth and gums to cause decay.
#10 – You are a Saliva Machine
Your body produces about two pints of saliva a day, which serves several purposes. One of them is to support your oral health by flushing away lingering particles and bacteria after eating or drinking.
Now that you’re aware of some of the happenings inside your mouth, hopefully you feel compelled to take the best care possible of your teeth and gums. For more information and to receive the vital care you need, you can always count on help from a local dentist!
About the Author
Dr. Christine DiBlasi Laster earned her dental degree from the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry. Throughout her career, she has taken pride in educating and treating her patients so they can be fully empowered. Dr. Laster provides preventive and restorative care at her private practice, and she can be reached for more information or to schedule a visit through her website.