Dentistry is a medical specialty that focuses on the identification, management, and prevention of dental and oral medical conditions. While most people are aware of the basic principles of dentistry, such as brushing and flossing, there are many surprising details about this profession that are not commonly understood. Here are eight surprising facts about dentistry that you may find interesting.

1. Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body

Tooth enamel is the tooth's top covering, and it is made of a mineral called hydroxyapatite. Because of this mineral, dental enamel is the strongest substance in the human body. In reality, dental enamel is more durable than bone. This is why teeth can endure chewing and biting pressures without fracturing or cracking.

2. Ancient dentistry was quite advanced

Dentistry has been practiced for thousands of years, and ancient civilizations had some of the most sophisticated dental procedures. For example, the ancient Egyptians used a combination of powdered pumice stone and vinegar to clean and whiten their teeth. They also used a simple type of tooth fillings made of honey and powdered copper.

3. Your teeth are as unique as your fingerprint

No two individuals have the same set of teeth, just as no two people have the same DNA. Each person's teeth differ in size, form, and placement. This is why dental records are frequently used in criminal requests to identify people.

4. Dentists can detect more than just oral health problems

A professional dentist can spot more than cavities and gum disease during a regular oral exam. Dentists are educated to detect symptoms of other health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Indeed, some research suggests that dentists may be able to identify early signs of these conditions before other healthcare practitioners.

5. Fluoride is a natural mineral

Fluoride is a mineral found naturally in a variety of food and water sources. Additionally, it is included in certain mouthwash, toothpaste, and public water sources to help avoid tooth decay. Fluoride strengthens dental enamel and increases its resistance to acid attacks from bacteria in the mouth.

6. Teeth can repair themselves

Teeth, unlike other parts of the body, don't recover on their own. However, they do have the ability to fix themselves to some extent. This is due to the fact that teeth are composed of living tissue that can regenerate in reaction to certain kinds of injury, such as tiny cavities.

7. Baby teeth serve an important function

Although baby teeth tend to be temporary, they play an essential role in a child's oral development. Baby teeth help children in learning appropriate chewing and speaking techniques, as well as holding room in the jaw for adult teeth to appear. Early tooth loss can create issues with speaking, chewing, and adult tooth alignment.

8. Your mouth contains more bacteria than the entire population of the earth

There are more bacteria in the oral cavity than there are humans on the planet. Your mouth is home to billions of bacteria. While many of these bacteria are harmless, others can cause dental health issues like cavities and gum disease. This is why it is essential to maintain proper dental care habits, such as brushing and flossing on a frequent basis, to keep your mouth healthy.

The bottom line

There is a lot of interesting and unexpected information about dentistry. There is always something new to learn about dental health, from the power of tooth enamel to the significance of baby teeth. You can keep your grin healthy and bright for years to come by taking care of your teeth and seeing your dentist on a regular basis.