You may not give your teeth too much thought on a regular basis. They serve their purposes of biting and chewing, and you care for them by flossing and brushing. But your mouth is a fascinating thing. Here are four interesting facts about teeth and dentistry. 

4 Fascinating Facts About Teeth & Dentistry 

1. People Have Cared for Their Teeth for Centuries

People have been caring for their teeth for thousands of years. However, modern dentistry implements and techniques are fairly recent developments. For instance, modern toothbrushes and floss have only come about in the last 200 years. However, Ancient Greeks, for example, used rust from iron as toothpaste. Ancient Asian societies chewed on twigs to clean their teeth or brushed with coral powder. The earliest-known dentist was in Egypt more than five thousand years ago.

2. Tooth Enamel Is the Body’s Hardest Surface

You may assume the skull would be the hardest surface on the body, but it is actually tooth enamel. Despite its toughness, enamel can wear away as a result of oral bacteria and the infections and cavities they produce.

3. Some Babies Are Born With Teeth

Most babies are born without teeth and go through a process of teething, in which their teeth come in at about six months of age. However, teeth start forming in the mouth in utero and development continues after birth. About one in every 2,000 babies is born with one or more emerged teeth.

4. Your Mouth Is Unique to You

Like your fingerprints, your tongue and teeth are unique to you. This is why forensic scientists can use dental records to identify people. Your mouth has other individual characteristics as well. For instance, if you’re right-handed, you likely chew with the right side of your mouth, whereas if you are left-handed, you probably chew with the left side. 

Take care of your teeth by scheduling an appointment with your dentist. If you’re a London, KY, resident, turn to Premier Dental. For over 30 years, they’ve provided a broad range of dental care services, from cleanings and crowns to cosmetic dentistry. Call (606) 877-3002 to schedule an appointment or visit the website to learn more about how they can help you and your family.