You likely already know that brushing and flossing twice daily can help prevent many common oral concerns, such as cavities, gum disease, and injuries. But did you know that visiting your dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning is also recommended?
Regular visits allow your provider to monitor your oral health, enabling them to catch and treat any areas of concern before they progress. But have you ever stopped to wonder what else you might not know about your teeth? Continue reading to learn 3 facts about your pearly whites that might surprise you!
Fact #1: They’re Harder Than Bone
Many people think that their bones are the toughest substance in their bodies, but that’s not usually the case! The protective outer layer of your teeth, the enamel, is typically harder and lasts longer.
This is because, although your teeth are comprised of many of the same ingredients as bone, they are about 95% mineralized calcium phosphate, which is incredibly dense. This material is shaped by a unique protein matrix that forms the mineral crystals into strong strands, enhancing their strength and durability. Meanwhile, your bones contain larger amounts of collagen and other organic matter, leading to a more flexible but slightly weaker structure.
Fact #2: They Won’t Heal Themselves
It’s easy to assume that minor injuries to your teeth, such as chips or cracks, will eventually mend themselves with enough time and patience. But, unfortunately, that’s not usually the case! Unlike your bones, teeth don’t contain living tissues, like blood vessels, which are essential for regenerating new cells required to heal themselves.
That means maintaining your teeth is imperative to preventing potential issues. If you don’t already have one, implementing a twice-daily dental hygiene routine consistently removes harmful plaque and bacteria, increasing your smile’s resistance to damage and disease.
Fact #3: They’re Exposed to Hundreds of Bacteria
Did you know that the average human mouth contains billions of bacteria representing hundreds of different species? Some of these help preserve your oral health by preventing harmful germs from thriving. Others aid the digestive process or maintain a balanced pH level to avoid acid damage.
But there are also plenty of toxic microbes that can harm your teeth. For example, Streptococcus mutans is the main culprit that causes cavities. These germs feed on sugars and starches and produce acids that can erode your enamel, so it’s imperative to regularly scrub them away.
Thankfully, your dentist offers a variety of services to help you avoid potential problems while maintaining a beautiful, resilient smile!
About the Practice
At Skyline Dental, you and your family benefit from the care and oversight of a team of dentists eager to help you build happy, healthy teeth and gums. They collaborate cohesively to offer a comprehensive menu of services, enabling them to assist with everything from preventive care to more complex procedures. Their compassionate approach is paired with advanced technology to deliver accurate, comfortable results intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (973) 963-8181.