5 Interesting Facts About Your Teeth

Your teeth may not get much thought. Many times, even the daily routine of brushing can become a task done on autopilot. Other than when a toothache strikes or when something is stuck between them (toothpick, anyone?), your pearly whites may not be on your mind a lot. But they are fascinating parts of your body! Here are five facts about them that reveal just how amazing they are.

#1. Your Teeth Are Uniquely Yours

Many people are aware that fingerprints are exclusive to you and only you. So are your teeth! Each tooth in your mouth has its own unique profile. No two teeth are alike, even in your own mouth. In fact, even identical twins don’t share a matching set of teeth. Everyone has distinctive pearly whites, which also means a unique bite pattern. For these reasons, dental records can be used in investigations.

#2. Your Teeth Are Made of Tissue

It is a common myth that your teeth are made of bone, but they are not. This may have become a misconception since both bone and teeth contain calcium. Your teeth are actually composed of soft and hard tissues. They consist of four different types of tissue: dentin, enamel, cementum, and pulp.

#3. You Have Four Types of Teeth

Oftentimes, teeth are thought of as all the same. However, you have four types of teeth: incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. Each one is unique and serves a different purpose in the digestive process.  Your incisors and canines are located at the front of your mouth; they are sharp and help you bite and tear into your food. Premolars and molars are the flatter teeth in the back that help to grind and chew.

#4. Your Enamel Is the Hardest Part of Your Body

Enamel, as you remember, is one of the tissues that make up your teeth. It is the outermost layer, acting like a tough shell to protect the rest of the tissues. Enamel is the strongest part of your body since it is not only made of calcium and phosphate but also specific proteins and crystallites. Despite being so tough, it is not immune to wearing down over time. When bacteria interact with sugar and acids, they can attack the enamel. It is important to maintain a consistent oral health routine and visit your dentist for your biannual checkups and exams to keep your enamel healthy.

#5. Teeth Are Like Icebergs

Ever heard of the saying, “There is more than meets the eye”? That applies to your teeth! Nearly a third of each tooth is not visible; the rest is underneath your gums! This makes it very important to maintain healthy gums, along with your teeth, to protect what’s underneath from infection. Be sure to see your dentist if you notice any early signs of gum disease, like sore or bleeding gums. Early care is the best key to ensuring your pearly whites remain healthy.

So, as you can see, your teeth are truly amazing. There is much more to them than you thought, all working together so you can eat, speak, and smile brightly!

About the Author

Dr. Ed Hajdari and his team at Blanco Dental Circle Care serve the smiles of Salinas and the surrounding communities. He gives high-quality care to you and your family through general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. As an active member of the Academy of General Dentistry, he helps you to take a proactive role in your dental health by providing such services as general annual checkups and gum disease therapy. If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about how to take the best care of your pearly whites, contact him through his website or call (831) 586-8002.