How well do you know your teeth? You probably know that without them, you would have great difficulty trying to talk and eat, but beyond that, do you know what they’re made of? Or how many different kinds of teeth there are? Knowing your teeth is the first step to achieving optimal oral health care, so today we test how well you know your teeth and how to protect them.
About Your Teeth:
1. How many teeth are in a healthy human mouth?
18
32
36
28
2. Name the four different kinds of human teeth.
Incisors, canines, premolars, and molars
Incisors, felines, premolars, and molars
Incisors, canines, molars, wisdom teeth
Incisors, felines, molars, wisdom teeth
3. What are the two main parts of a tooth?
Root and canal
Crown and pulp
Root and crown
Base and point
4. Cavities, or tooth decay, are caused by excessive sugar consumption.
True
False
5. How many times should you brush your teeth in a day?
1
2
3
Once every other day.
Answers:
1. A healthy human mouth typically grows 32 teeth, including the last four molars, which are known as wisdom teeth.
2. The 32 teeth in a healthy human mouth are divided into four categories: incisors, canines, premolars, and molars (wisdom teeth are considered third molars).
3. The root of the tooth extends below the gum line and anchors into the jawbone. The crown protrudes above the gums, and is the only part of the tooth that should be visible.
4. False—Contrary to popular belief, cavities are not directly caused by consuming too much sugar. The whole truth is that the bacteria that rest in your mouth (in the form of plaque) metabolize sugars and carbs and excrete acid over the surface of your teeth. The acid weakens your enamel, which allows bacteria to enter and infect the interior of your tooth.
5. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that your brush your teeth at least twice a day, and floss at least once. This will help you control the bacterial population in your mouth and help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
ABOUT YOUR SOUTHLAKE DENTISTS:
As a native Texan, Gregory Wright, DDS, opened his private practice in Southlake, TX in 1992. He and Dr. Victoria Heron are happily accepting new patients from Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, Trophy Club, Colleyville, and all surrounding communities. To learn more, call our office today at (817) 481-7999.
