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Facts to Know About Teeth

Facts to Know About Teeth

To say teeth are one of the most important parts of our body may be obvious, as what part of our body is not important? But teeth have a very interesting role to play when it comes to our health. 

This piece will discuss some interesting facts, some of which should be known about teeth to stay healthy.

Taking Care of Teeth is not a New Phenomenon 

Dentistry actually dates back to 7500 BC, which means taking care of teeth is not a new addition to taking care of our health. The ancient Egyptians were the first to start using replacement teeth, and are believed to be the pioneers in tooth replacement and other specialty treatments such as crowns.

It is said that the ancient Greeks have been using ‘toothpaste’ since around 500BC, however, toothpaste was a little different back then. Ancient Greeks would use a mixture of coral powder and iron rust while using twigs from trees as toothbrushes which were also chewed on. 

Teeth are Like Fingerprints 

Teeth are like fingerprints in the sense that they are uniquely yours. Because of this, it is common for dental records to be used to identify human remains. It is said that even twins do not have the same teeth, so teeth really are a unique part of our identities.

 

There is a Big Connection Between Oral Health and General Health

There are more bacteria in the mouth than there is people on the entire earth! Most of the time, this bacteria is harmless and does an excellent job of preventing diseases by fighting off harmful germs that try to get into the body through the mouth. This amount of bacteria in the mouth is completely normal, and flossing and brushing teeth keep the levels of bacteria under control. 

Without good oral hygiene, problems can occur. Sugar and bacteria together create acids that attack teeth causing all sorts of oral issues which can then turn into infections and spread to other parts of the body. 

For those in Buncombe County, visit an Asheville dentist, and have a teeth check-up to make sure everything is working as it should!

The Enamel on Teeth is Irreplaceable  

The enamel that coats the teeth is irreplaceable, which means it cannot self-repair, and once damaged, the damage cannot be undone, only covered over. It is unfortunately quite easy to damage enamel. Some of the actions that might cause damage include over brushing, acid erosion from sugar and carbonated drinks, under brushing, certain medical conditions such as acid reflux, and also environmental conditions. 

There are 4 means of environmental conditions that can cause problems to enamel:

  • Abfraction – where a tooth cracks or fractures from outside pressure on the tooth.
  • Abrasion – wear and tear of the surface of the tooth caused by hard brushing and biting on hard objects such as pen lids.
  • Attrition – natural friction caused by teeth grinding (bruxism) which commonly occurs in sleep.
  • Corrosion – where acids attack the enamel. Acids do not just come from food; certain medications and medical conditions can cause corrosion as a side effect too.

It is important to be aware of these in order to put in preventative measures.

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