From munching your favorite food to posing for a photo with that precious smile, your teeth play a major part. But do you really know everything about your teeth?
Here are a few interesting facts about your teeth, we bet you did not know!
Want to know a tasty fact?
Cheese can protect your teeth! It creates a protective layer around your teeth which neutralizes the acid in plaque.
Cheese is great for your teeth as it contains high levels of phosphate and calcium which helps in naturally strengthening teeth and bones. Other foods that can be good for your teeth health include yogurt, sesame seeds, onions, apple, etc.
Did you know your teeth start to form in the womb?
By the second week of the conception the tooth buds of the primary (baby) teeth are formed distinctly. The buds are the part of the initial development of the teeth and gum structure. The teeth later develop into these structures.
Also, your teeth are arranged in your mouth as unique as your fingerprint and are used for forensic purposes too.
Recent studies have found that the formation of our teeth is as unique as our fingerprints. Teeth formation pattern are also used for forensic purposes to some extent. Studies also suggest that our tongue has its own unique shape and pattern that rarely change over time as it is protected inside the mouth. Interesting, right?
Teeth are the hardest substance of your entire body. The Enamel is a rock-hard mineral!
The enamel on your teeth is the hardest and most highly mineralized substance in your body. So next time some asks you to show your strength, just strike that million-dollar smile!
Healthy eating is always beneficial!
You can create a natural protective barrier to prevent staining before a main meal by eating a leafy salad or steamed vegetables.
Leafy vegetables are packed with fibers that are not only good for your digestion, but also, can do wonders for your teeth. Munching on leafy salads and steamed vegetables is helpful in preventing your teeth from staining. It takes longer to chew leafy vegetables thus, the level of saliva generated in your mouth is increased. Which automatically helps in cleaning the teeth.
Dried fruit is worse for your teeth than normal fruit. The drying process releases free sugars which can contribute to a buildup of plaque.
Dried fruits have very little moisture content in them and when the water is lost all you are left is with a lot of concentrated sugar content. Although not all dried fruit are bad for your teeth, raisins contain a compound that help fight tooth decaying bacteria.
Hygiene is always a good habit!
Children’s teeth must be brushed as soon as the first tooth shows!
Parents can gently clean the tooth with a muslin cloth wrapped around the finger or with a very soft-bristled brush.
Wondering where you lose those precious hours?
Brushing our teeth to start our day has become a universal virtue. But, did you know, that humans spend almost 38.5 days of their lives brushing teeth!
Timing matters!
It is recommended to wait at least an hour before brushing.
Brushing within half an hour of eating or drinking certain foods can actually damage enamel as the enamel is softer. It is recommended to avoid brushing right after eating or drinking anything. Although, you can gargle with clean water to avoid odour in your breath.
Keep the Unwanted Bacteria Away & Stay Hygienic!
The aerosol effect when your toilet is flushed is a cause of concern because the bacteria can travel quite a distance. It’s recommended to keep your toothbrush at least 3 feet from the toilet.
Infection is not always from outside
“Got A Cold? Change your toothbrush!”
Germs can hide in toothbrush bristles and can lead to reinfection. It is recommended to change your toothbrush while recovering from a fever or flu.
The best practice is to change your toothbrush every 3 months.
Beware! There is enough fluoride in an adult tube of toothpaste to kill a child.
Fluoride is a natural mineral that’s proven to be effective in preventing tooth decay and the development of cavities. it’s found naturally in some foods and some fresh water sources like lakes and rivers.
But access of this mineral can prove harmful to you and your child’s health. So, make sure you encourage your little one to spit out their paste after brushing.
Its recommended to use age specific toothpaste for your child since the fluoride content is adjusted as per age.
Less is more! Use only a pea sized amount of toothpaste while brushing.
While toothpaste helps in cleaning our teeth, an access of it can lead to harmful effects. Thus, it is suggested to use only a pea sized amount of toothpaste while brushing.
Now that you know everything about brushing and oral hygiene. Take care of your and your family’s smile!
For more such interesting facts and health tips, stay tuned with the Nth Sense!
Dr. Sohil Daswani,
Consultant Prosthodontist & Implantologist
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