You brush and floss them twice a day a more (hopefully), and according to recommendations, you should let a professional clean and inspect them at least once every six months. In spite of the quality time that you (should) spend with your teeth, how much do you actually know about the little marvels? Today, your Lafayette dentist, Dr. Michael J. Young, presents a few interesting facts about your teeth that go beyond the brush and floss you use to care for them.
Did You Know?
- The protective layer around your teeth is called tooth enamel, and is comprised almost entirely of calcium and phosphate mineral crystals. When healthy, enamel is stronger than any other substance on earth except diamond.
- A healthy human mouth can comfortably accommodate 28 permanent teeth. Unfortunately, some people grow a total of 32, including four extra molars. These last teeth grow in between the ages of 17-25, once called the age of wisdom, and are frequently known as wisdom teeth.
- It’s a good thing your teeth are the strongest part of your body. On average, the human bite can generate up to 200 pounds of pressure on your back molars. Consequently, the alignment of your teeth helps displace your bite’s pressure to minimize damage to their structures.
- Missing teeth have a greater effect on their remaining brethren than you may realize. Left untreated, your healthy teeth can shift to try and take up the slack and absorb the pressure from your bite.
- If you lose a tooth, the root connected to it can be replaced with a dental implant. Restoring the root restores stimulation in your jawbone, which invites nutrients to keep your jawbone strong and healthy.
Take Care of Your Teeth with Help from Your Lafayette Dentist
As amazing as your teeth are, they require your diligent care and maintenance to remain strong and functional. To learn how to care for your teeth properly outside of brushing and flossing, or it’s been a while since your last dental checkup and cleaning, schedule an appointment with your Lafayette dentist by calling Dr. Young at (337) 237-6453. Located in the 70508 area, we proudly serve patients from Lafayette and all surrounding communities.
