You use your teeth every day, and you do your best to take care of them. Still, you might not often pause to think about just how unique and amazing they are. In this blog post, you will learn 10 fascinating facts about your teeth that might just deepen your appreciation for this vital part of your smile.
1. Your Teeth Are Unique
Just like your fingerprints, your teeth are uniquely yours. No one else has exactly the same smile as you — not even if you have an identical twin! That is why dental records are sometimes used to identify human remains.
2. You Can Only See Part of Them
Your teeth are so much more than what you can see when you smile at yourself in the mirror. In fact, about one-third of each tooth is hidden beneath your gumline. That is one reason why gum health is so important.
3. You (Might) Have 32 of Them
If you developed all four wisdom teeth, your smile likely has a total of 32 pearly whites. Of course, due to genetics or other circumstances, some people have more or fewer.
4. Tooth Enamel Is the Hardest Part of the Human Body
A lot of people would say that their bones are the hardest part of their body, but that is not accurate. The outer layer of your teeth — the enamel — is actually harder. It is made out of the same materials as bones, but its unique structure makes it even tougher.
5. Tooth Enamel Is Still Vulnerable to Damage
Despite its hardness, tooth enamel can still chip or become eroded over time due to prolonged acid exposure. Careful eating habits can help to keep your enamel in great shape!
6. Changes in Color Might Signal Decay
Healthy teeth can be several different shades. They can be grayish-white, bluish-white, or even slightly yellow. However, if you notice any significant changes in the color of your teeth, that might mean that you have spots of decay or erosion that you should see a dentist about.
7. Dentin Grows and Changes
Dentin is the second layer of your teeth; it is located just beneath the enamel. It is also harder than your bones. Unlike enamel, though, enamel can grow and change throughout your lifetime.
8. Your Mouth Has Lots of Bacteria in It
According to some estimates, an average person’s mouth has around 700 different species of microbes in it. But do not worry — a lot of those species are harmless. Some are even helpful! A few types, though, can lead to infections and decay. Proper oral hygiene can help to minimize bacterial growth and keep your smile healthy and strong.
9. Plaque Leads to Cavities
While not all bacteria are bad, plaque is bad. This sticky biofilm forms on your teeth when bacteria interact with sugars in your mouth. If it remains on your teeth for too long, it can harden into tartar and eventually lead to decay.
10. You Will Make 10,000 Gallons of Spit
An average human products about 10,000 gallons of saliva throughout their lifetime. Saliva is a vital part of oral health. It makes food easier to swallow, rinses away harmful particles, and contains minerals that can strengthen your teeth.
Meet the Practice
Dr. George Keanna is an experienced holistic dentist who is proud to serve the Albuquerque community. He loves to learn, and he loves to share his knowledge with his patients so they can make well-informed decisions about their oral health! If you would like to absorb some of his wisdom, contact Natural Dental Services at 505-292-8533 to book your first appointment with our team.