Tooth Trivia: 8 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Your Teeth

If you were on a game show and had to answer questions about your teeth, do you think you could win? They’re one of the most complex systems in your body, with anatomy that is unlike anything else. You might brush, floss, and chew with your pearly whites every day, but chances are you have a lot to learn. Here are eight facts that might change the way you think about your smile and your oral health.

1. Enamel is Incredibly Hard

Your teeth are coated in enamel, the hardest substance found in your body. In fact, on the Mohs hardness scale, tooth enamel is a 5, making it harder than gold, silver, iron, and even steel! But it still can’t repair itself, so don’t try biting down on any construction equipment.

2. Your Smile Is Unique

No two smiles are alike, even in identical twins. This is why, besides your fingerprints, your dental records are one of the most accurate ways to identify you.

3. You Have Teeth Before You’re Born

Baby teeth begin developing around six weeks into pregnancy. So even though you won’t see them until many months after you’re born, they’re always a part of you.

4. You Make a Lot of Saliva

Over the course of a lifetime, the average person produces enough saliva to fill two swimming pools. While that image might make you cringe, saliva is very important for your oral health as it neutralizes acids and protects your enamel.

5. Plaque Contains Millions of Bacteria

Within a single milligram of dental plaque, there can be more than a million bacteria waiting to cause cavities and gum disease. Consider this your incentive to floss!

6. Yellow Doesn’t Always Mean Dirty

Enamel is naturally white and slightly translucent. However, the layer beneath it, dentin, has more of a yellow hue. This is why, as enamel thins with age, teeth can appear more yellow even if you’re a professional tooth-brusher.

7. Teeth Can’t Heal Themselves

Teeth are tough, but unlike bones, they can’t regenerate. This is why, once you have a cavity, crack, or chip, you need professional help to fix it.

8. Your Mouth Is an Early Warning System

Many systemic conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis, show early signs in your mouth. Your dentist may notice something worth paying attention to before you or your doctor does!

The more you know about your teeth, the better you can take care of them. A little awareness and a solid oral care routine will go a long way in protecting your smile.

About the Author

Dr. Nicholas Mueller earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry and is an active member of the International Association of Orthodontics. At Shorewood Family Dentistry, he provides comprehensive general, cosmetic, and restorative care for patients of all ages. Call (414) 332-8150 to schedule a consultation with our friendly team and get to know your teeth a little better.