Dental Facts & Trivia

We all know how important it is to maintain good oral hygiene. Unfortunately, it’s not always the most exciting habit on your to-do list. We’ve tracked down a few fun dental-related bits of trivia to spice up your oral hygiene routine!

Dental Facts & Trivia

Below are a few interesting dental-related facts:

• Not only did the Egyptians invent toothpaste, but they were also the first to perform root canals on their teeth.
• Animals all have a different number of teeth for their own unique diets and needs. For example, humans have 32 teeth, dogs have 42 teeth, cats have 30 teeth, and pigs have 44 teeth!
• One out of every 2,000 babies will be born with teeth!
• In an average lifetime, humans will produce up to 100,000 gallons of saliva. That’s enough to fill 200 bathtubs with spit!
• If a human loses a tooth, it’s gone forever. However, if reptiles lose their teeth, they can produce as many more as they need! Some reptiles even have up to 3,000 teeth over their lifespans.
• Around 3 million miles of dental floss is purchased each year in the United States.
• Teeth are the hardest part of the human body. They are far stronger than your most dense bone.
• The first chewing gum was called “chicle,” and was made from the sap of Sapodilla trees. The Aztec people boiled the sap and cut it into strips.
• George Washington’s dentures were not actually made of wood! That is a myth. They were actually made of lead, ivory and hippopotamus teeth, which is even weirder.
• According to Consumer Reports, dentists are among the top 5 most trusted professionals in America.
• Approximately $2 billion a year is spent on dental products – this includes toothpaste, toothbrushes, and mouthwash.

The best way to care for your teeth is to be sure to brush and floss every day and visit Meadows Family Dental every six months for a dental cleaning and a checkup. To make your appointment, please contact our Castle Rock, Colorado family dental office today.