30 Crazy Facts About Teeth

Do you know what the world’s largest teeth are? How about the smallest? What is the toothiest animal on Earth? The staff here at your local dentist office loves this sort of trivia, so let’s answer all of these questions and more! Teeth are a fascinating part of our anatomy, and there is a lot to learn about them. So without further ado, let’s get started!

1. The world’s largest teeth belong to the blue whale. These massive creatures can have teeth that are up to a foot long!
2. The smallest teeth in the world belong to a species of rodent known as the pygmy shrew. These tiny animals have teeth that are less than a millimeter in length!
3. The toothiest animal on Earth is actually not a mammal, but a fish! The lamprey is a type of parasitic fish that can have up to 100 rows of razor-sharp teeth. These teeth are so sharp that they can actually slice through flesh and bone!
4. Did you know that humans are not the only animals with two sets of teeth? Baby sharks actually have three sets of teeth! They lose their first set of teeth before they are even born, and then they lose their second set of teeth as they grow older.
5. The enamel on your teeth is the hardest substance in your entire body.
6. There are more bacteria in your mouth than there are people on Earth.
7. Most people have 32 permanent teeth, but some people can have up to 42 or more.
8. humans have fewer teeth than most animals. For example, elephants have 36 molars (that’s six per quadrant).
9. Your tongue is the strongest muscle in your body.
10. A toothpick is the most common item found on beach clean-ups.
11. It takes about 50 years for a tooth to decompose in landfill.
12. Every day, 200 million people brush their teeth worldwide.
13. There are over 300 different types of bacteria that live in your mouth.
14. The average person spends 38. five days brushing their teeth over their lifetime.
15. The first ever dental surgery was performed in 1498!
16. more than 25% of the world’s population does not have access to basic dental care.
17. less than half of Americans floss daily even though it is recommended by dentists.
18. Sugar isn’t the only thing that causes cavities. Starch can also lead to tooth decay.
19. The enamel on your teeth is thinner than a sheet of paper.
20. You should brush your tongue as well as your teeth to keep your mouth healthy.
21. brushing too hard can actually damage your gums and wear down the enamel on your teeth.
22. The bristles on your toothbrush should be soft in order to avoid damaging your gums.
23. You should replace your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if the bristles start to fray.
24. There are over 600 different types of bacteria that live in plaque.
25. Flossing is just as important as brushing when it comes to keeping your teeth clean.
26. Plaque can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if it is not removed.
27. You should floss at least once a day to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
28. The best time to floss is at night before you go to bed.
29. Water picks are a great alternative to flossing, and they can be used on the go.
30. Mouthwash can help kill bacteria and freshen your breath at the same time.

These are just some of the many interesting facts about teeth! Did we miss any that you know of? Let us know during your next visit to your dental office in Ocean County.