You only get one set of permanent teeth, and they’re with you for your entire adult life. You rely on them to communicate clearly, eat healthy foods to support your body, and grin confidently.
Although healthy teeth are essential to your daily quality of life, most people don’t think overly much about them unless they’re having an immediate issue. Continue reading to learn 3 fascinating facts about your pearly whites so you can appreciate them that much more!
Fact #1: They Aren’t Pure White
Most people long for a bright white smile, but very few come by them honestly. This is partly because even perfectly healthy teeth are not naturally snowy but are more ivory-toned. Your enamel, the outermost protective layer, is indeed a clear bluish-white hue.
However, it’s also somewhat translucent, so the underlying layer of darker yellow dentin shines through. This is what gives your grin its off-white appearance. That means thoroughly brushing and flossing might not be enough to visibly lighten your smile. Consulting your dentist about cosmetic options, like teeth whitening, veneers, or dental bonding, can enhance your appearance and boost your confidence.
Fact #2: Enamel is the Harder Than Bone
Many patients assume that their teeth are little mounds of bone in their gums because they’re both made of calcium and phosphorus, but the truth is that they’re very different structures. Bones contain living cells and blood vessels that allow them to regenerate, so they can heal themselves and continue to grow and change as we age.
Your chompers, meanwhile, don’t contain bone marrow, collagen, or living tissue. Instead, your enamel is composed of highly mineralized crystals of mostly calcium phosphate, making it the hardest substance the human body creates. Despite its strength, if it’s injured, you’ll need your dentist’s help to repair the damage.
Fact #3: They’re Bigger Than They Seem
Did you know that your pearly whites are a bit like icebergs? Just like a large mountain of ice protruding from the deep blue below, they contain more mass underneath the surface of your gums. In fact, about 1/3 of each tooth is hidden from view when your gums are healthy.
If you’ve begun seeing more enamel than usual when brushing or flossing, you might be experiencing receding gumlines due to periodontal disease. If bacteria in your mouth penetrate your connective tissues, they start to pull away from your enamel to escape the illness, revealing more of the structure beneath. This can increase your vulnerability to disease, decay, injuries, and even destabilized or dislodged teeth, so it’s important to call your dentist sooner rather than later.
Now that you know more about your teeth, you can see why it’s so important to care for them correctly!
Meet the Author
Dr. Wael Kassem has 15 years of experience helping people of all ages build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. He earned his dental doctorate from Temple University and completed his General Practice Residency at Kings County Hospital in New York City. Today, he’s a member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, to stay on top of the latest developments in technology and techniques. Whether you require a checkup and cleaning or a more complex procedure, he can customize treatment plans to meet your unique needs. You can request an appointment on the website or call (856) 818-9998.
