Are we really aware of our teeth? (Teeth)

Have you ever smiled in front of a mirror and taken a good look at your teeth? In fact, teeth not only contribute to our beautiful smile, but also help us digest the food we eat properly. The main function of teeth is to break the food we eat into pieces, grind it, and make it easier to swallow. So, today we will talk about this small but very important part of our body.

What exactly are teeth?

Many people think that teeth are a type of bone. But teeth are not actually bones. Teeth are specialized organs, just like our skin, hair, and sweat glands. Structurally, they are very different from bones. A broken bone can grow back, but a broken tooth cannot.

How many teeth do we have?

An adult usually has 32 permanent teeth . However, some people may be born with fewer teeth, a condition we call `(Hypodontia)`. Also, some people may have more teeth than they need, a condition we call `(Hyperdontia)`.

When we are young, that is, from 4 months to 6 years old, we get baby teeth . There are 20 of these baby teeth. Over time, these baby teeth fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth.

The four main types of our teeth

Not all teeth in our mouths are the same. Each type has a specific function. They work together like a team to properly process the food we eat. Let's take a look at what these types of teeth are.

How is a tooth formed?

When we look at a tooth, we only see one part. But a tooth has two main parts.

1. Crown: This is the part of the tooth that we can see above the gum line. It is covered by a very strong covering.

2. Root of the tooth: We cannot see this. These roots extend from the gum and attach the tooth to the jawbone.

If you go inside a tooth, it has four main layers.

• Enamel: This is the protective, white outer covering around the crown of the tooth. Enamel is the strongest substance in our body. It protects teeth from bacteria.
• Dentin: The layer beneath the enamel. It is not as strong as enamel. If the enamel wears away and the dentin is exposed, the tooth is more susceptible to decay. This is also a major cause of tooth loss.
• Cementum: This covers the root of the tooth. This is what helps to hold the tooth firmly in place in the jawbone.
• Tooth Pulp: This is the part of the tooth that is inside the tooth. It contains nerves, blood vessels , and connective tissue. We feel a toothache when something like an infection gets into this part.

What are the most common dental problems?

Our teeth can develop various diseases and problems. Here are some of them.

• Tooth decay: This is the most common problem. The sugars in the food we eat combine with bacteria to form acids. These acids dissolve the tooth enamel and cause cavities. We say "worms eat teeth."
• Teeth grinding (Bruxism): Some people grind their teeth in their sleep. This can lead to tooth wear, breakage, and jaw pain.
• Teeth sensitivity: A sharp pain in the teeth when eating or drinking something hot or cold. This can be caused by enamel erosion or exposure of the tooth roots.
• Trauma to the mouth: Teeth can be broken, chipped, or completely knocked out due to something like a fall or sports accident.
• Tooth discoloration: Teeth can turn yellow when you drink things like tea and coffee regularly, or when you take certain medications.
• Impacted teeth: Some teeth, especially wisdom teeth, can become impacted in the gums or jawbone, causing pain and infection.
• Orthodontic misalignment: Conditions such as crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, and crowding of teeth.
• Abscessed tooth: When bacteria enter the pulp of a tooth, pus can collect at the root of the tooth and form an abscess. This is a very painful condition.
• Gum disease: Although it starts in the gums, if not treated properly, it can cause teeth to become loose and even fall out.

Be careful if you have these symptoms.

See if you have these symptoms. If so, see a dentist as soon as possible.

• Toothache
• Pain when eating cold, hot, or sweet foods
• Pain when chewing food
• Swollen or bleeding gums
• Swelling of the jaw

How to maintain healthy teeth?

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is not that difficult. Just incorporate these simple habits into your life.

• Brush your teeth twice a day, for at least two minutes: Brushing your teeth in the morning and before going to bed at night is essential. Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Flossing daily: It is very important to use dental floss to remove food particles that get stuck between your teeth that your toothbrush cannot reach.
• Correct eating habits: Reduce sweet, sticky foods and drinks as much as possible. Avoid frequent snacks between meals.
• Visit the dentist: Even if you don't have any problems, visit a dentist at least once a year to check your teeth. This way, you can identify and treat any problems before they become serious.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking increases the risk of gum disease, tooth discoloration, and oral cancer.