Your permanent teeth play an essential role in the quality of your daily life because you rely on them to grind food to be easily swallowed and digested, clearly formulate different words to communicate, and smile confidently to express emotions.
But how much do you really know about the pearly white mounds in your mouth? Continue reading to learn 4 fascinating facts about your teeth that you might not have already known!
Fact #1: They Are Unique
Many people only consciously think about their teeth when they’re brushing them or have an issue, like an ache, that requires their attention. As a result, you might never look closely enough at your chompers to see that each is entirely unique. In fact, dental records are so individualized that they can be used to identify human remains, just like fingerprints can be used to verify the culprit at a crime scene.
Your tongue also has a unique print based on its shape, texture, and color, which can also be used for identity and security purposes.
Fact #2: There’s More Under the Surface
You probably already know that brushing your enamel removes plaque and bacteria that contribute to common oral issues like tooth decay and gum disease. However, if you don’t also floss, you’re not getting a thorough cleaning.
That’s because a large portion of each tooth, about a third, resides beneath the surface of your gums. You need to remove germs from between your pearly whites and below the connective tissues to protect the roots hidden below from potential harm.
Fact #3: They Are Harder Than Bones
It’s easy to assume that your teeth are made of bone, but the truth is that they are composed of different materials that serve a different purpose. Bones are primarily made of calcium phosphate and collagen, but teeth consist of several layers of pulp, cementum, dentin, and enamel.
Many people mistake them for bones because the outermost layer, enamel, is so tough and durable. The proteins that make up the structure of this protective shield form mineral strands that are thousands of times stronger than those found in bones, making it the hardest substance in the human body.
Fact #4: They Can’t Repair Themselves
Although teeth contain many of the same basic ingredients as your bones, they don’t contain living tissues and, therefore, do not mend themselves if injured. While bones regenerate cells to repair damage like sprains or breaks, your pearly whites will remain chipped, cracked, or fractured until your dentist can fix them.
Understanding more about your teeth can help you recognize the many ways they contribute to a long and happy life!
About the Practice
At PeaksView Dental, you and your family benefit from a team of dentists with decades of combined experience. They work together to provide a wide array of services to patients of all ages, so whether you need basic preventative care or a more complex procedure, they can help. They strive to provide a welcoming environment to help you feel calm and comfortable throughout every appointment. Then, they utilize state-of-the-art equipment to deliver accurate, long-lasting results. You can contact the office on the website or call (540) 586-8106.