If you’re healthy, your mouth probably doesn’t look particularly interesting. The only times you may even think about it are when you’re eating or when you’re being treated by your dentist in Denton. However, the structures and organs in your mouth are actually very complex. They’re designed to last a lifetime and are deeply connected to the rest of your body. Check out the following facts to learn just how incredible they really are and how you can take good care of them!
1. Tooth Enamel Is The Hardest Substance In Your Body
Your teeth have developed to handle chewing nearly any food you can throw at them. The outer layer of your teeth, known as enamel, is actually the hardest substance in your body, even harder than bone. However, just because it’s strong doesn’t mean it’s invincible. Bacteria in your mouth can break it down over time, which is why it’s important to keep your teeth clean and attend regular preventive care visits.
2. Your Tongue Is A Living Surface
Most people talk about their teeth and gums when discussing oral health, but that leaves out a critical contributor: your tongue. It’s actually one of the strongest muscles in your body and is covered in over 2,000 taste buds that get replaced weekly. What makes the tongue even more interesting is what is happening between those buds. There are actually tiny grooves on your tongue’s surface that bacteria live in. When they accumulate, they have the power to cause bad breath and contribute to tooth decay. Cleaning your tongue regularly with your toothbrush or a tongue scraper can prevent this from happening.
3. Cavities Are More Common Than You Think
A cavity is an embarrassing dental issue, but nearly everyone gets them! One study published by the National Center For Health Statistics determined that 90 percent of adults had at least one cavity in their lifetime. If you want to protect yourself from getting them, try reducing the amount of sugary foods in your diet and brushing after each meal.
4. Saliva Can Help Prevent Tooth Decay
The average person will produce enough saliva in their lifetime to fill two swimming pools. But why do our bodies even make so much? It turns it is useful for a few reasons. Not only does it help break down food, but it also washes away pieces that get trapped between teeth, making it harder for bacteria to produce the acids that cause tooth decay.
5. Your Toothbrush Should Only Be Used For Three Months
The American Dental Association recommends changing your toothbrush every three months or immediately after recovering from an illness. Yet 42% of people don’t! An old toothbrush can have pockets of bacteria building up between the bristles. When you brush, they can re-enter your mouth and damage your teeth and gums. If your toothbrush’s bristles are bent or falling out, it’s a clear sign that you need a new one.
6. Your Oral Health Affects The Health Of Your Whole Body
90% of systemic diseases have some connection to the quality of your oral health. If you don’t follow good dental hygiene habits, bacteria in your mouth can enter your bloodstream and travel to other parts of your body. This process has been shown to accelerate the development of problems such as heart disease and pneumonia. Daily brushing habits combined with regular use of antiseptic mouthwash will make it harder for bacteria to grow in your mouth.
Now that you know how incredible everything in your mouth is, take the proper steps to care for it. Visit the dentist at least twice a year for regular hygiene appointments so they can protect your mouth from disease.
About The Author
Dr. Todd Balington began practicing in the DFW area in 2009. He graduated with his dental degree from the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine. He enjoys educating patients about how they can keep their smiles clean and healthy for a lifetime. If you’d like to know more about proper home care procedures, you can him through his practice’s website or at 940-383-3300.