Did you know that the rise of dental technology and knowledge of the importance of oral health is a significant contributor to the increase in the life expectancy of humans over the past 200 years? Your dental health may be more important than you realize, which is why it is essential to maintain regular appointments with your dentist to keep your teeth clean and sparkling. Below you can learn about more of the interesting and lesser known facts of your oral health that may motivate you to get to the dentist’s office.
Nearly 75% of Americans suffer from gum disease.
Despite the many advances that have taken place in dentistry over the past several decades, there are still about 3 in 4 American adults with some form of gum disease. One of the biggest contributors to this statistic is poor at-home care. While the recommended guideline for brushing is 2-3 minutes twice daily, most people only spend 48 seconds brushing their teeth each day. Improper flossing may also be to blame, as many adults do not floss enough or floss correctly, so plaque and tartar are allowed to build up between the teeth.
About 300 different bacteria species can live in dental plaque.
The human body is crawling with bacteria, many of which are beneficial to your health. Still, there are some not-so-friendly species of bacteria that can do significant damage in the body. 300 such species can live in the plaque on your teeth, which is what makes dental plaque so destructive. Regular flossing and rinsing can keep these bacteria at bay, but they are quick to multiply and return with a more lax oral hygiene routine.
The dental profession is only about 200 years old.
As recently as the 1800s, there was no such thing as a dentist. It was likely that you would visit a blacksmith or barber to address a toothache, which was primarily handled by removing the tooth, and in some cases, replacing it with something else .
Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body.
Tooth enamel is an incredibly durable material, harder than any bone in your body. However, it can still sustain damage from habits like using your teeth to open containers or brushing too hard and wearing down the enamel over time. Because tooth enamel is so strong and functional, efforts have been made to create synthetic teeth in the body, though the science is still a few years off from practical applications in humans.
If you are due for a dental checkup or you need more extensive restorative care to achieve a healthy smile, call University Associates in Dentistry at (312) 704-5511. Our high-tech Chicago practice can care for your smile, whether you are seeking preventive, restorative, or cosmetic services.
