You use your teeth every day for eating, speaking and smiling, but how much do you really know about your teeth? Here are four things you might not know about teeth that your dentist at Dr. George Salem and Associates, PC in Braintree thought you might find interesting.
Your tooth’s enamel is the hardest part of your entire body.
You thought your bones were strong; your tooth’s enamel is even stronger. This strong enamel helps you cut and bite through your food with ease. Just because your enamel is strong doesn’t mean it is invincible, however. Chew on hard items like bottle caps or ice or neglect to brush your teeth after enjoying sugary treats and you’ll find yourself visiting your dentist at Dr. George Salem and Associates, PC in Braintree for fillings.
2. You will spend 38.5 days brushing your teeth over the course of your lifetime.
Do you brush your teeth twice a day like you are supposed to? If so, you will likely end up spending 38.5 total days of your life just brushing your teeth. That may seem like a lot, but when you brush for a few minutes each day, that time really adds up quickly.
3. Your tooth prints are as unique as your fingerprints.
Your fingerprints aren’t your only identifying characteristic; your tooth prints can be used to identify you too. While tooth prints aren’t as widely used as fingerprints, they can be used by detectives to determine your identity if needed.
4. Only two-thirds of your tooth’s surface is visible.
Your teeth don’t just sit in your mouth on their own. Instead, they are held in place by the full one-third of your tooth that is buried underneath your gums. As long as the bottom third stays covered by your gums, it shouldn’t need any special care. If your gums begin to pull away, however, a trip to your dentist at Dr. George Salem and Associates, PC in Braintree will be necessary.
If you thought your teeth were simple and boring, think again! Your teeth are actually an incredibly complex and interesting part of the body. Are you interested in learning more? Call Dr. George Salem and Associates, PC in Braintree and set up an appointment with your dentist today.