7 Interesting Facts about Teeth
Teeth are an integral part of the human body, and they perform many functions, such as chewing, biting, and even communicating. However, there is more to teeth than just their functional role. In this article, we will discuss seven interesting dental hygiene facts about human teeth.
Teeth are the Hardest Substance in our Body
It is a common misconception that bones are the hardest substance in the human body. In reality, it is our teeth that hold this title. Teeth comprise a mineralized tissue called enamel, the hardest substance in the human body. Enamel is composed of hydroxyapatite crystals that are tightly packed together, giving teeth their hardness and durability. Despite this, teeth are not indestructible and can still be damaged by excessive wear or physical trauma.
Every Tooth is Different
Every tooth in the mouth is different in shape, size, and function. The front teeth, also known as incisors, are sharp and thin and are used for cutting and biting food. The canines, located next to the incisors, are pointed and are used for tearing food.
The premolars and molars are located towards the back of the mouth and have a flatter surface used for grinding and crushing food. Each tooth also has a unique root system that anchors it into the jawbone. The number of roots and their shape can vary depending on the type of tooth. Understanding the unique characteristics of each tooth can help dentists diagnose and treat dental problems more effectively.
Teeth can’t Self Repair
One of the interesting facts about teeth is that they cannot self-repair. Unlike other parts of the body, such as bones or skin, teeth cannot regenerate or heal once they are damaged or decayed. This means that if a tooth is cracked, chipped, or worn, it will not heal on its own and will require dental treatment to repair or restore it.
It is essential to maintain the right oral hygiene habits, such as brushing regularly and visiting our dentist for dental cleaning in the Bronx, NY, to prevent tooth damage and decay.
Teeth Start Forming before Birth
Teeth begin forming in the fetus as early as six weeks into pregnancy. By the time a baby is born, the primary teeth are already formed and are just waiting to emerge. At birth, babies usually have 20 primary teeth, which begin to emerge between six months and one year of age. These primary teeth eventually fall out and are replaced by adult teeth, which continue to grow and develop throughout childhood and adolescence.
Your Teeth are Alive
Despite their hard exterior, teeth are alive and have blood supply and nerves. The living tissue inside the tooth is called the pulp, and it is made up of blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. The pulp helps keep the tooth nourished and healthy. If the pulp becomes infected, it can cause significant pain and even lead to tooth loss.
Teeth are not Bones
Although they are both hard and strong, teeth are not bones. Bones are made up of living tissue that can heal and grow, while teeth cannot regenerate themselves once they are damaged. While bones can break and heal, teeth cannot. This is why taking care of your teeth and protecting them from damage is essential.
Your Teeth can Reveal your Age and Diet
Teeth contain unique chemical signatures that can provide clues to a person’s age, diet, and even geographic location. Dental analysis has been used to determine the age and dietary habits of ancient humans and animals.
By examining the enamel and dentin layers of teeth, our dentist in BX Dental can evaluate what you ate and drank during your lifetime. This can provide valuable insight into the diets and lifestyles of people who lived in the past.
Teeth are Important for Overall Health
Teeth are not just important for chewing and biting. They also play a role in speech, facial structure, and overall health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to various health problems, including gum disease, tooth loss, and even heart disease. Taking care of your teeth and maintaining good oral hygiene habits are essential to promote overall health and well-being.