You use your smile every day, whether that’s by showing it off or biting and chewing into your favorite foods. The reason you can do all this is with the help of your teeth. These structures may be small, but they have a big impact on your daily life. While you might not know much about them, here are 10 facts about them to help you appreciate them just a bit more.
1.) Every Grin is Unique
No two smiles are the exact same, so you are flaunting a one-of-a-kind look. In fact, dental records can even identify someone!
2.) There’s More to Teeth Than What You See
The chewing part of a tooth is the crown, but there is actually about two-thirds of the structure under the gums and in your jawbone.
3.) People Often Have 32 Teeth Total
From the middle, people typically have eight incisors, four canines, eight premolars, and twelve molars. That said, some might be born with less or more than normal.
4.) Enamel Is the Hardest Substance Your Body Can Make
The outer layer of your teeth is your enamel. It’s made from calcium and phosphate, but it’s the hardest substance your body makes.
5.) Enamel Can Still Develop Damage
While strong, enamel can still be damaged by biting into hard foods or injury. Not only that, but bacteria in your mouth can erode them as well.
6.) Enamel Isn’t Technically a Living Tissue
Your enamel doesn’t have any nerves or cells in it, so it’s technically a non-living tissue. Nothing can deliver nutrients to it, but it can be remineralized after it’s been weakened by plaque with fluoride toothpaste.
7.) Although Enamel Can’t Grow, Dentin Can
Building off the above, if you have a chip, then the outer layer of your teeth can’t grow back. That said, the portion underneath it can. This is the dentin, but it has channels that go down to the nerve, which can also deliver needed minerals and vitamins.
8.) Your Mouth Is Home to 300 Different Bacteria Species
In all, your mouth can have anywhere from 200 to 300 different types of bacteria in it. While you may think they are all bad, some are good. Streptococcus mutans is the species that causes cavities, and it produces acid when it gets sugar.
9.) Yellowing Isn’t Always Staining
Discoloration can be caused by dark foods and drinks, but your dentin is also yellow. It can peek through thinned enamel. If so, then you may be at a higher risk of decay.
10.) About 10,000 Gallons of Saliva Are Made in a Lifetime
A person may produce about a quart’s worth of saliva every day on average. Over a lifetime, this turns into thousands of gallons! This is helpful as it remineralizes your enamel and washes away harmful bacteria. That way, your smile is in great shape as you get use out of it.
About the Practice
At Chardon Smile Center, you benefit from the skilled leadership of Dr. Christopher Phillips and Dr. Brian Titus. We are dedicated to helping the local community get the stronger teeth and gums they deserve with preventive care. By having routine checkups and cleanings, we can spot any problems early and get them handled as soon as possible. If you are due for your next semi-annual visit, schedule an appointment or call our office at (440) 286-2474.