Crazy Facts About Teeth

It isn’t any secret that our teeth do a lot more than help us chew food. Without them, even simple things are a lot more challenging. Teeth help us make facial expressions, form words, whistle, and a number of other things we don’t often think about. Our first set of teeth, 20 in number, are in place by the age of 3 and replaced just a few years later by our 32 permanent teeth- wisdom teeth included. Between the 52 teeth we own in our lifetimes, there is a lot going on- a large amount of it, we don’t even know. Here are 10 fun facts about teeth to share with your kids.

Did You Know?

1. Teeth aren’t bones. Though hard and white, they are unable to heal themselves if damaged.
2. One-third of each tooth isn’t visible. It is hidden inside the gums.
3. The arrangement of your teeth is as unique as your fingerprint. No two smiles are alike!
4. Children are 26 times more likely to laugh than an adult. As pediatric dentists, we want to make sure their teeth are clean and healthy for the world to see.
5. Ketchup is among the worst offenders of teeth staining. If you or your child likes their ketchup, be sure to brush extra diligently!
6. The number one chronic disease for children is tooth decay. Yes, it is even more common than asthma and hay fever. 
7. There are four types of teeth in our mouth: incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.
8. Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the body. This resilient surface is 96 percent mineral. But despite its strength, it can still suffer significant wear if not properly cleaned.
9. The first toothbrushes were used over 5000 years ago.
10.  Cheese can actually protect your teeth. So if you like cheese, you may be benefiting from the protective layer it creates, neutralizing acids in plaque.

Your Smile Experts

It’s clear that our teeth are important, but they need to be taken care of in order for us to benefit fully.  Our pediatric dentists are here to make sure your child’s teeth are healthy and white.  We love brightening smiles. Come visit Timp Dental for Utah’s most committed pediatric dentistry.

Schedule an appointment >