1) The first tooth emerges between 6-12 months
The first tooth to emerge is usually the second incisor, which typically happens at around 6-12 months of age. The timing of this emergence varies depending on the size and shape of a baby’s mouth and jaw. The eruption pattern remains consistent, with most teeth emerging before age 3.
2) Most people believe that bones are the hardest substance in the human body, but actually it is our tooth enamel
The hardest substance in our body is actually tooth enamel, not bones. It’s the first thing to form when we develop in the womb, and it starts out as a layer of cells. As time progresses and we grow, minerals like calcium phosphate replace the cells and harden into an enamel-like material.
3) Humans have at least 32 permanent teeth
There are at least 32 permanent teeth in a human mouth. The first upper teeth to come in are the central incisors. These teeth, along with the lateral incisors, help us to bite, chew and speak. Between the ages of 6-8 years old, a person will have 20 baby or primary teeth and 12 molars in their mouth; by 12 years old, all primary teeth will have been lost and replaced by adult teeth.
4) There are over 300 different species of bacteria in plaque
Plaque is the sticky, colorless film that develops on teeth and under fingernails. As soon as plaque forms, it starts to release acid that can erode tooth enamel. Over time, this damage can lead to cavities and gum disease. But plaque also has another function: it’s a safe haven for more than 300 different species of bacteria! These bacteria are mostly harmless, but some may cause infections if they get into deeper parts of the mouth.
5) Particles from toilet flushing can make their way to your toothbrush bristles
Flushing the toilet puts bits of fecal matter and bacteria into the air. These particles can go right onto your toothbrush bristles in your bathroom if you don’t have a toilet lid. Scientists found that toothbrushes placed next to toilets had three times as much fecal bacteria than those which were not near a toilet. Flushing the toilet also increases the risk for contamination of other household surfaces, such as countertops, sinks, and floors.
6) Teeth can’t repair themselves
Did you know that teeth can’t repair themselves? If a tooth is damaged, it is usually treated by covering the tooth with an artificial material. This allows the body’s natural process of re-absorbing minerals over time to slowly heal the tooth. If your tooth is severely damaged and hasn’t been fixed, you may need to get it pulled immediately.
7) Every tooth is unique
Teeth are similar to a fingerprint in the sense that no two are quite alike. It’s difficult to believe, but every tooth has its own shape and size. In fact, the teeth of identical twins are not exactly the same.
8) About 75% of all Americans have some form of gum disease
Gum disease is an infection in the gums that causes swelling, redness, and bleeding. It can also cause bad breath to appear. This common disease is usually caused by bacteria in the mouth. There are many ways to reduce the risk of developing gum disease such as brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing regularly, drinking plenty of water, and eating a healthy diet.
9) Most Americans would rather shop for groceries than floss
Flossing is an often overlooked part of oral hygiene. It’s important because it removes debris and food that can cause cavities and gum disease. The American Dental Association recommends flossing once a day, but research shows that only about one-third of people do so regularly.
10) More than half of people say their first physical trait they notice is someone’s smile
Flossing is an often overlooked part of oral hygiene. It’s important because it removes debris and food that can cause cavities and gum disease. The American Dental Association recommends flossing once a day, but research shows that only about one-third of people do so regularly.
11) Contrary to popular belief, you should not place a cap on your toothbrush
Placing the cap over the bristles may trap bacteria and cause more problems in the long run. It is recommended that you replace your
toothbrush every 3-4 months or when the bristles start to fray.
12) People are born with 20 teeth
Humans are born with a set of 20 primary teeth; 10 in the upper jaw, and 10 in the lower jaw. We start out with two of these teeth on each side in the back of our mouths. These are called baby teeth, or milk teeth. If a child’s baby teeth aren’t knocked out by age 6, they will most likely come out by themselves.
13) Teeth aren’t bones
Contrary to popular belief, teeth are not bones. They are composed of enamel on the outside, dentin in the middle, and a layer of nerves and blood vessels running through the root of the tooth. Teeth also have a covering that is made up of proteins and minerals that help keep them stable.
14) On average, people spend only about 48 seconds on brushing their teeth each day
Brushing your teeth is important in keeping them clean and cavity-free. But, on average, people only spend about 48 seconds a day brushing their teeth. People often forget to brush some of the surfaces of their mouth, and they also don’t brush long enough. The time that you spend brushing your teeth should be at least two minutes if you want to have the best chance of preventing cavities and getting whiter teeth.
Oak Meadow Dental Clinic
Oak Meadow Dental is a dental clinic that provides high quality and affordable family and cosmetic dentistry in Los Gatos, CA. Our team of highly trained dental professionals is always striving for patient satisfaction by providing education on oral care, as well as creating natural-looking smiles with state-of-the-art technology. Oak Meadow Dental provides innovative, customized treatment plans to address each patient’s specific needs and goals. We offer a variety of sedation options, FDA cleared lasers, Invisalign® clear braces, free consultations and financing options.