If you’re like many others, you might only think about your dental health when it’s time for your routine checkup every six months or if you’re having an immediate issue. However, your teeth are essential to your overall quality of life; you rely on them to enunciate words, chew food thoroughly, and smile confidently. That means maintaining your oral well-being can contribute to your day-to-day experiences.
But how much do you really know about the pearly white mounds in your mouth? Continue reading to learn 3 fascinating facts about your teeth that might surprise you!
Fact #1: They Are Completely Unique
Did you know that your teeth have a profile that’s as uniquely yours as your fingerprints? No two sets are the same because your genetics, lifestyle, diet, and habits impact their growth and development. Even identical twins don’t have the exact same smile for this reason.
In fact, dental imprints are so completely individualized that they can be used like fingerprints to identify you. Authorities have been known to provide teeth imprints and dental records to help identify criminals or solve challenging or high-profile cases.
Fact #2: Enamel is the Hardest Substance in Your Body
Many assume that teeth and bones are made of the same stuff because they’re incredibly resilient and contain calcium. The truth is they’re very different structures, and your teeth are stronger than your skeleton. This is partly because they have a protective outer layer of enamel, which is the hardest substance produced by the human body.
This material is made of incredibly dense minerals, such as hydroxyapatite, which forms the foundation of your teeth and bones. However, enamel has a concentration of 90% while bones only contain 60%. That means your pearly whites can outlive your bones, which is why archeologists often study the dental remains of ancient cultures.
Fact #3: Your Toothbrush Isn’t Your Only Defense
Brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily helps prevent common oral issues, like cavities and gum disease, because it consistently removes plaque, bacteria, and other residue that can cause them. Although your oral hygiene routine is imperative to your dental well-being, it’s not your mouth’s only defense against potential problems.
Saliva also protects your mouth in a few different ways. Firstly, it keeps everything moist to discourage unhealthy germs, which love arid conditions, from thriving. It also rinses away leftover food or other debris that might attract unwanted bacteria. Finally, your spit also has a nearly neutral pH balance to counter any potential acid damage to your enamel.
As you can see, there are many reasons to appreciate your teeth and all they do for you!
Meet the Author
Dr. Andrew Tadros has nearly 10 years of experience helping families in Dallas build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, and is an active member of multiple professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. He proudly provides a comprehensive menu of services at one convenient location to meet even the most unique needs. Whether you need preventive care or a more complex procedure, he has the in-depth training and state-of-the-art equipment to help. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (469) 917-7444.