You are likely familiar with how your smile is. You may run your tongue across your teeth and be used to how they are supposed to feel. These handy dental structures help you dig into your favorite foods, but they are much more than that! Keep reading to learn 10 facts about them to give you a better understanding of your oral health.
1.) Your Smile Is Unique
Every grin that people flash is different! No one will be able to show off one that looks exactly like yours. More so, dental records can even be used to identify someone!
2.) Teeth Are Similar to Icebergs
The surfaces of your teeth are just a part of them. About a third is covered by your gums, which helps keep them in place. That’s why keeping these pink soft tissues healthy is important.
3.) Typically, People Have 32 Teeth Total
Generally, people have (from front to back) eight incisors, four canines, eight premolars, and twelve molars. There are some people who are born with fewer or even more teeth!
4.) Enamel Is the Hardest Substance Your Body Makes
The human body can be fascinating with what it can do, and making enamel is one of them! This outer layer is made from calcium and phosphate that’s arranged with proteins and crystallites to make it stronger.
5.) However, It’s Not Invincible
That being said, your enamel isn’t immune to damage or wear. You can get chips or cracks due to hard foods or facial blows and erosion because of plaque.
6.) Enamel Is a Non-Living Tissue
When your enamel chips, it can’t repair itself like bones. There are no cells or nerves in it, so it won’t be able to get any nutrients that support it. You have to do your part in protecting it!
7.) It Can’t Grow, But Dentin Can
Going off the point above, while the outer layer can’t grow, the dentin underneath can. It has tiny channels that deliver needed nutrients and nerve signals, so it can change over time.
8.) Your Mouth Is a Diverse Oral Microbiome
Your mouth is home to about 200 to 300 different species of bacteria. Not all are bad; plenty are good, but the one that causes trouble is Streptococcus mutans. It produces an enamel-dissolving acid.
9.) Yellowing Isn’t Always Stains
Tooth discoloration often happens because of the foods and drinks you have, but it can be a sign that you’re getting a cavity. When the outer layer of your teeth is weakened and thin, the yellow dentin underneath is exposed. You may also feel sensitive to hot and cold items.
10.) About 10,000 Gallons of Saliva Is Produced in a Lifetime
Every day, you produce about a quart’s worth of saliva on average. Bring this out to a lifetime, and it turns into thousands of gallons! It might seem like too much, but it’s helpful in washing away harmful bacteria and strengthening your enamel.
About the Author
Dr. Kyrslyne Thomas earned her dental degree from the Medical College of Georgia. She has over a decade of experience with countless hours of advanced training. This has helped Dr. Thomas give the Pearland community the highest quality care that they deserve. By going to her for your checkups and cleanings, you can trust your teeth and gums to stay the best they can be and problem-free. To schedule your next semi-annual visit, visit her website or call her office at (832) 520-2949.