In our modern times, there’s no real reason to fear the dentist; however, many people still have stress and anxiety before every appointment. If you’re one of them, talk to the dentist about any concerns. The best providers are passionate about the profession and will be happy to answer questions until their patients feel comfortable. They may even share one of the following facts to take the patient’s mind off the procedure at hand!

6 Fun Facts About Oral Health 

1. Enamel Is the Hardest Bodily Tissue

Your teeth can pierce the flesh of fruit, crush nuts into oblivion, and tear through thick slabs of meat. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that enamel is the hardest tissue in the entire body. The hardness of tooth enamel is comparable to that of window glass, and it is highly resistant to wear and tear. 

2. Brushing Only Does 60% of the Work 

Each tooth has five surfaces, and brushing only cleans three of them. That means if you’re not flossing, you’re missing two distinct surfaces—or 40%—of each tooth. Unfortunately, the two surfaces you’re missing tend to accumulate the most plaque and bacteria because neither the tongue nor saliva can get to them. 

3. Every Mouth Is Unique

No two people have precisely the same dentition. Even identical twins have different dental records, because environmental and lifestyle factors affect the rate at which teeth wear down. Your tongue also happens to be entirely unique. The next time you’re brushing, stick your tongue out and take a closer look. No one else has taste buds in the same size, shape, and distribution. 

4. People Without Cavities Are the Minority 

There may not be anything fun about dental decay, but if you do have any cavities, take comfort in the fact that you're in good company. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 92% of adults between the ages of 20 and 64 have had cavities in their permanent teeth. 

5. Women Smile Far More Often Than Men 

It probably comes as no surprise that babies smile more than anyone else, with an average of 200 times per day. What many people do find surprising, though, is the fact that women smile nearly eight times more than men. Researchers have determined that women smile roughly 62 times per day, while men smile just eight times daily. Could this be why roughly 80% of the patients who get Botox® are women?

6. Americans Toss One Billion Brushes a Year

Dentists recommend changing your toothbrush every three to four months. That means the average American should use three to four brushes per year. We may not floss as often as recommended, but according to Bio-Based World News, it looks like we’re replacing our toothbrushes frequently enough. 

If you’ve been putting off going to the dentist because of anxiety, turn to Bream Family Dental Care in Waynesboro, VA. This family dentistry practice is proud to treat patients of all ages throughout Augusta County. Whether you need a simple teeth cleaning or something more invasive like dental implants, you can rely on them for comprehensive care. Visit their website to browse all the services they provide, and call (540) 949-7246 to make an appointment today.