Caring for your mouth correctly is an important part of your overall health. You’re probably aware that brushing and flossing twice daily is essential to prevent cavities and gum disease, but what else do you know about your teeth? Although we live with them our entire lives, we tend to forget about them unless we’re cleaning them or having some kind of issue. Keep reading to learn 5 fascinating facts that you didn’t already know about your pearly whites to better understand them!
Fact #1: Teeth are Harder Than Bone
Did you know that enamel is the hardest substance in the human body? This protective outer layer of your teeth is harder than bone but isn’t invincible. Consuming sugary and acidic foods and drinks can erode it which causes tooth decay. Enamel doesn’t regenerate, but brushing with a fluoride toothpaste eradicates unwanted microbes while reinforcing enamel.
Fact #2: Teeth Aren’t Naturally White
While the outermost layer, the enamel, is indeed a blueish-white color, the layer underneath it is not. The level below it is comprised of dentin, which is also harder than bone but is yellow instead of white. Over time, as your translucent enamel wears down, the dentin shows through which is part of the reason why your teeth fade as you age. It’s also why whitening treatments aren’t always effective. Some discoloration originates internally and can’t be bleached away.
Fact #3: Your Teeth Are Like Icebergs
Your dentist might know your teeth better than you, simply because there are portions that you never get to see—unless viewing X-rays. Only about one-third of your pearly white sits above your gumline. The greater section lives beneath it, which is why flossing is so important. You need to remove bacteria from around your tooth and under your gumline to protect the larger segment under the surface.
Fact #4: Saliva is a Natural Shield
You might consider your toothbrush to be the first line of defense when it comes to your smile, but that job is already taken. Saliva is your body’s natural remedy to prevent dental problems. Firstly, it has a nearly neutral pH value to counterbalance high acid content and prevent decay. It also rinses away unwanted food particles that attract toxic bacteria.
On top of all that, it’s full of enzymes to break down your food, which is the first step in the digestive process. Spit is so important that your body will generate an estimated 10,000 gallons of it throughout your lifetime.
Fact #5: Your Mouth Houses Hundreds of Bacteria
When food particles and germs stick to your teeth, they create a sticky film known as plaque. Unfortunately, it contains millions of bacteria made of 200 to 300 different species. While some are beneficial, not all are. One of the most harmful is Streptococcus mutans, which is responsible for converting carbs and sugar into cavity-causing acid.
Hopefully, this information inspires you to treat your teeth with all the tender love and care they deserve!
About the Practice
Family Dental Care has been improving patients’ oral health for over 30 years. You and the entire family benefit from a team of dentists who provide a wide range of services to meet all your dental needs. We take a co-diagnosis approach which means you work with your dentist to find the right solutions. Then, using high-end technology, you’ll receive quality treatments for lasting results. You’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (905) 803-0278.