To have a little fun, we present some surprising facts about the mouth and teeth. These illustrate how complex and surprising the structures of the mouth can be, and that the mouth represents a complex system that requires professional attention, namely from your dentist!
Enamel is the hardest part of the entire body
Tooth enamel represents the outer layer of the teeth. Even though it measures approximately 2.6 millimeters when in good condition, enamel is very resistant and effectively protects the teeth against external aggression and bacteria. Tooth enamel is composed of 95% minerals, mainly calcium and phosphorus. This makes it the hardest part of the entire human body, even harder than bones and the skull!
Despite this, enamel can wear down, especially due to a diet high in acids. Worn enamel becomes less resistant to protect teeth against cavities and is more at risk of damage. To promote the good condition of enamel, it is important to use a fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride is an element that, by attaching to the surface of the enamel, allows for its remineralization. This means that fluoride toothpaste helps prevent enamel erosion and makes it stronger and more resistant!
An adult produces an average of 1.5 liters of saliva per day
1.5 liters may seem huge, but it's actually true! The salivary glands of a healthy person produce this amount every day. Thus, it is estimated that a person who lives up to 80 years produces about 25,000 liters of saliva in their lifetime.
A sufficient production of saliva is important for oral health. Indeed, it naturally protects teeth against the acids produced by bacteria, neutralizing a portion of them. Saliva also helps to partially clean the mouth after meals, to eliminate food residues. Saliva contains antibodies that help to neutralize bacteria and pathogens that can contribute to the development of gum disease. In addition, saliva mixes with chewed food and allows us to swallow (swallowing), which represents the first stage of digestion. Saliva also lubricates the oral walls, allowing us to speak comfortably.
Because of all these benefits, it is understood that a lack of saliva can have many consequences for oral health. This condition is even called "xerostomia" or dry mouth. It can be caused by taking certain medications, due to their side effects, as well as certain health conditions. Smoking also contributes to drying out the mouth. Xerostomia should be addressed in order to prevent its effects on the oral environment. If necessary, talk to your dentist about it!
Your dentist can diagnose more than 200 oral pathologies.
To become a dentist, one must go through extensive training, covering all aspects related to oral tissues, their functioning, and the pathologies that can affect them. Thus, it should be known that your dentist is able to diagnose more than 200 diseases of the teeth and oral tissues. These range from simple cavities to mouth cancer, as well as a multitude of conditions.
For your dentist to diagnose these diseases, which affect everyone, they must be able to examine you regularly. Dental exams are performed during routine visits and allow for the detection of any pathology in order to intercept its development and avoid associated complications. Thus, make sure not to neglect your routine visits if you want to protect yourself against these pathologies and maintain good oral health.
Approved by Dre Charouk
Dr. Joumana Charouk, D.M.D, is proud to offer her patients exceptional care that combines experience, efficiency and good humor.
Dre Joumana Charouk, D.M.D