Twelve great facts about teeth
Most of us put a lot of time and effort into reading about the things we find interesting. Whether it’s a hobby we’re trying to better our skills in or a subject at work we’re trying to become more of an authority figure on, we never stop educating ourselves on the things that pique our interests. But what about the things in our own bodies that we overlook on a daily basis? We use our bodies every day, yet most of us have never done any research into how or why they work. It’s uncommon that a part of our curios research ever has anything to do with ourselves, and that’s especially true when it comes to the mouth.
If you’re like us and are getting curious about your chompers, here’s a list of 12 interesting facts about teeth that will surprise you:
1. Surveys have shown that your smile is the first thing that other people will notice about you. This is according to 50 percent of people.
2. Have you ever wondered how much time you spend brushing your teeth? The answer is an entire 38 days.
3. Humans have four different types of teeth to cut and grind their food: this includes incisors, canine, premolars and molars.
4. You will cause more damage to your teeth by constantly snacking (particularly on carbs) and sipping drinks throughout the day, than by eating a chocolate bar! That’s because bacteria feed on carb-containing foods and then produce an acid, which attacks your teeth and causes decay.
5. One-third of your tooth is actually not visible. The rest of it is under your gums!
6. If you ever knock out a tooth, that tooth will begin to die in as little as 15 minutes.
7. “Milk teeth” begin to form in the womb, but they don’t officially appear until a child is at least six months old.
8. Toothpaste has only been around for 100 years. Before modern toothpaste was invented, people would use charcoal ashes, chalk and even lemon juice to keep their teeth clean.
9. Tooth decay (cavities) is the most common childhood disease. However, brushing your teeth every day can reduce the risk of tooth decay by 25 percent.
10. Humans have two sets of teeth in their lifetime while sharks have 40.
11. You don’t need to rinse after you brush your teeth. The longer you allow the fluoride to sit on your teeth the better.
12. Your teeth can provide clues to your overall health. For example, gum disease, which occurs in one out of every seven adults, is associated with diabetes and strokes. Those with gum disease also have a higher risk of delivering babies with low weight and premature births.
If you are in need of family or cosmetic dental services, consider Dr. Alan Macdonald´s services. We are a caring family dental clinic that prioritizes your needs and comfort. As soon as you walk in the door, you will feel that you are in good hands. Contact us today to learn more.