Although the American Dental Association recommends having a dental exam and cleaning every 6 months to prevent common dental concerns, such as cavities and gum disease, sources report that only an estimated 50% of American adults keep up with twice-annual appointments.
There’s a commonly shared adage, “The more you know, the more you appreciate.” With that in mind, continue reading to learn more about 3 interesting facts about your teeth to deepen your gratitude for them, which can potentially increase your inclination to take better care of them!
Fact #1: They Are Entirely Unique
You likely already know that your DNA and fingerprints are uniquely your own, which is why these traits are often used to help identify individuals suspected of committing crimes. If this evidence is found at the scene, authorities can trace it back to you.
But you might not have already known that your teeth and bite are equally as distinctive. In fact, in some cases, they’re even more identifiable than other traits. For example, identical twins share the same DNA and fingerprints, but thanks to slight differences in diet, habits, routines, and injuries, they can have varying bite patterns that can be used to separate one from the other.
Fact #2: Enamel is Harder Than Bone
It’s easy to assume that teeth and bones are made from the same stuff because they’re both incredibly hard and are usually a pearly off-white color. But although they contain similar building blocks, such as calcium and phosphorus, they’re not exactly the same.
For instance, bones contain nerves, blood vessels, and marrow, which produces living cells. That means they’re capable of regenerating after a break or injury. But the hard outer layer of your teeth, enamel, is the hardest substance made by the human body. It’s denser than bone and doesn’t contain living cells, so your teeth typically last longer than bones but can’t repair themselves after harm.
Fact #3: They’re Like Icebergs
No, your teeth aren’t giant blocks of frozen water. However, they are similar to icebergs in that a large portion of their total mass exists beneath the surface. About two-thirds of your teeth are hidden under the gumline and within the jawbone, which is why routine dental visits are so important.
You could develop issues, like cavities or gum disease, the roots beneath your gums that you can’t see on your own at home. Meanwhile, visiting your dentist for regular checkups allows them to take annual X-rays to identify hidden problems and devise appropriate treatment plans.
You can also help strengthen your teeth and gums by brushing and flossing twice daily to remove harmful plaque and bacteria!
Meet the Author
Dr. Leah Byers takes the time to get to know her patients so she can provide customized services to help them build and maintain happy, healthy teeth and gums. She earned her dental degree at the NYU College of Dentistry, and today, she has 15+ years of experience providing a complete menu of services, including preventive care, to address people’s unique dental needs. Her compassionate approach, paired with advanced technology, delivers more comfortable and accurate results meant to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (703) 570-1117.