Thursday, November 3, 2022

5 Things You Didn't Know About Your Teeth

We use our teeth to bite, chew and talk countless times throughout the day. However, it's very easy to take our teeth for granted. When it comes to our teeth, many of us still have a thing or two to learn. Here are 5 facts about your teeth that you may not have known...

1. Your Enamel is the Hardest Part of Your Body - The enamel is the outermost layer of your teeth. Like a hard shell, its primary purpose is to protect the rest of the tooth. Even though it is there to protect your teeth, your enamel can still chip or crack. Sugars and acids, like those found in soft drinks, interact with bacteria in your mouth and attack your enamel, which marks the start of tooth decay. 

2. Your Mouth is Home to 300 Types of Bacteria - Plaque contains millions of bacteria, made up of up to 300 different species. The main culprit for poor tooth health is Streptococcus mutans, which converts sugar and other carbohydrates into the acids which eat away at your teeth. White and sticky, Plaque is constantly growing. If you don’t remove it regularly by brushing and flossing, it can cause tooth decay. Without removal, plaque hardens and develops into tartar. So, brush and floss at least twice a day and see your dentist for regular cleanings.

3. Yellow May Mean Decay - When you think of the reasons your teeth might be looking yellow, your first thought likely goes to stains. While teeth can get stained by foods, drinks, and other substances, these stains are not the only reason your teeth might change color. Enamel is partly responsible for your teeth’s white appearance, and when it decays, your teeth may start to appear yellow.

4. Your Teeth Cannot Repair Themselves - A tooth is the only part of your body that cannot heal itself. Your tooth enamel is a very strong part of your body, and it is essential to look after it so your smile can look and feel healthy your entire life.

5. Your Teeth Can be an Indicator of Your Overall Health - One in 7 adults age 35 to 44 have gum disease. For adults older than 65, that number increases to 1 in 4. Tooth decay and other infections in the mouth may be associated with health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. People who have higher levels of gum disease also have a higher level of heart disease.

Healthy teeth and gums are critical contributors to your overall good health. If you have any questions about oral hygiene or your dental health, please give Medina Orthodontics a call.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Popular Posts