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Jun 27, 2024
Teeth are nothing short of a miracle! These small body parts contain a wide network of membranes, nerves, and minerals and give us the perfect smile. They help us chew, speak, bite, and maintain our facial structure. Thus, they must be treated with love and care to maintain health and hygiene. Permanent teeth are precious and must be replaced with implants if damaged to the extent of extraction.
However, nothing can match the effectiveness of natural teeth, which add charm to our smiles and crunch to our food consumption. These pearl-like body parts are crucial for various reasons, but we know little about them. Most people are unaware of their role in our lives, whether it’s their structure or function. Let us help you understand them better with a list of fun facts about teeth. This information will make you realise their significance and many surprising details.
1. Humans Have 52 Teeth
Babies are born with 20 teeth hidden under the gum line at birth. The first tooth starts erupting between the ages of six and eight months. The first teeth to appear are the front bottom teeth, known as central incisors. By age three, children have 20 temporary teeth that start falling out when they turn six to make way for permanent teeth. Human adults have 32 teeth comprising eight incisors, four canines, eight premolars and twelve molars. Wisdom teeth are the last to erupt between 17 and 25 years.
2. Enamel Is the Hardest Part of Our Body
Many people think that teeth are like bones. However, this is far from the truth. Teeth comprise four dental tissues: enamel, dentin, cementum and pulp. While the first three layers are hard, the fourth one is soft and contains nerves, connective tissue and blood vessels. Tooth enamel is the hardest part of the human body and protects the tooth from damage. It is made from calcium and phosphate like the bones but is harder than them because of the presence of proteins and crystallites. Being hard does not mean that enamel is unbreakable. Experienced dentists in Hope Island emphasise brushing twice daily to avoid enamel erosion.
3. Bite Force of Human Teeth Is Massive
Teeth are used for biting, grinding and chewing, but they have a bite force of 200 pounds. It may be weaker than most wild animals but is strong enough to eat hard foods like nuts. Many individuals use this force to open canned bottles and break walnuts. However, this should be avoided as it can lead to chipping or cracking of teeth. It may come as a surprise to you that the bite force of human molars is better than orangutans and gibbons.
4. Facts About Teeth Growth
It is fascinating to know that one-third of the tooth is hidden under the gums, and only two-thirds of it is visible. The invisible part firmly holds the tooth in its place and protects the root. However, some people have a gummy smile that reveals too much of the gum line. This can be treated by visiting a reputed dentist in Hope Island who offers gum contouring services.
It must be understood that the outermost layer of the tooth (enamel) does not grow while the dentin keeps growing throughout a human’s life. The dentin comprises various passageways and channels that help to transport nerve signals and nutrition.
5. Human Teeth Are One of A Kind
The most interesting fact about human teeth is that everyone has a unique set. Right from the 20 temporary teeth to the 32 permanent teeth, all of them are one of a kind like fingerprints. No two people can have the same dental features. Thus, they are used as forensic evidence to identify a person’s remains when blood is unavailable. Teeth and bones provide DNA access. Teeth can help identify a skeleton’s race, gender and age accurately.
6. Teeth Cannot Heal on their Own
Some tissues like skin and organs like the liver can regrow and self-heal. However, the same rule does not apply to teeth. They cannot regenerate or recover on their own. Tooth decay cannot be stopped without getting it treated by your dentist in Hope Island. Getting your mouth examined every six weeks and brushing and flossing daily to keep bacteria and acids away is vital. If left untreated, bacterial infections can reach the pulp and lead to tooth loss.
7. Teeth Are Always Surrounded by Bacteria
Teeth are vulnerable to decay because they are always surrounded by bacteria. Our mouth has over 700 species of microorganisms, and while some of them are good for us, others can lead to tooth decay. Bacteria usually start attacking teeth when they create a colourless film on the surface called plaque. This film contains millions of bacteria that transform food into acids that erode the enamel. Brushing prevents bacteria build-up and protects teeth.
Wrapping Up
Teeth are tiny parts of our bodies but provide the best oral support and aesthetic appeal. It is impossible to imagine our lives without these pearly whites, which make food consumption delightful and easy. Learning more about your teeth is a good way to keep them healthy and hygienic.
