There truly is an abundance of interesting facts about your teeth and mouth. Here are a few to really sink your teeth into.
1. The tooth is the only part of the body that can’t heal itself.
This is why receiving fillings and other dental work from your dentist is necessary to protect your teeth from further damage.
2. Some of the first toothbrushes were made out of animal hair and feathers.
Back in the day, bristles were made with coarse hair from pigs’ necks and attached to a bone or bamboo to make a toothbrush.
3. Only about 65% of US adults see the dentist annually.
Despite how important it is to get routine dental exams, the majority of adults neglect to do so.
4. Soda consumption is the biggest cause of tooth decay.
Did you know that tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in the world? And soda isn’t helping. The combination of sugar and acid pose as a double threat to your teeth.
5. Nearly half of American adults have periodontal disease.
Gum disease is more common than you might think. Which is why it’s important to keep up on brushing, flossing, and dentist visits!
6. The amount of radiation exposure from a dental x-ray is less than flying on a plane.
It’s true! The exposure is so harmless, Oregon repealed the requirement to wear a lead apron.
7. Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in your body.
Yep, it’s even harder than your bones! However, enamel can dissolve or decay when exposed to acid and a build-up of bacteria.
8. Your teeth can determine your age, ethnicity, eating habits and lifestyle.
Your smile really does say a lot about you! By examining teeth, we can learn a lot and even find signs of various health issues, like oral cancer. That’s why our routine dental exams come with a free oral cancer screening.
9. Saliva prevents tooth decay.
Saliva plays an important role in tooth care. In fact, it’s the most powerful natural defense against decay. Saliva contains important elements that neutralize acids and repair tooth damage. That’s why we recommend chewing sugarless gum to create more of it!
Your mouth is an important part of your body, which is why it’s important to take care of it. If you haven’t already, schedule your next dentist appointment in Eugene with Dentistry at The Ten!