Did You Know? 3 Facts Almost Nobody Knows About Teeth!

The most surprising thing we learn as dentists is how little our patients know about looking after their teeth. Most patients brush twice a day and hang up their toothbrush, but we want to unveil 3 surprising facts most people do not know about their teeth and how to look after them! 

Did you know that Saliva is a better defence against dental cavities than the toothbrush?

Saliva is the bodies first line of defence against cavities. The common misconception of saliva is that it exists to aid is with chewing, swallowing and digesting food, however, saliva has far more beneficial properties than just this. Salvia is a natural disinfectant which kills the bacteria in your mouth which feed on leftover sugar and starch residue from food. A lack of saliva can result in a whole host of problems from cavities, too bad breath and teeth staining, and deterioration of your tooth enamel which makes your teeth appear more yellow! 

Fortunately, it is quite easy to maintain the level of saliva in your mouth. Keep hydrated! But hydrate in the right way! Always avoid sugary drinks such as sodas, fruit juices, iced teas and milkshakes! Choose water always! 

Did You Know Snacking Is Bad For Your Teeth? Avoid Snacking!

Who knew how often you ate affected your teeth? Every time you eat the cavity-causing bacteria emerge and begin to dissolve the remnants of food around your teeth. 

It is the acid secreted by the bacteria which dissolves your enamel. Enamel is vital for the health and appearance of teeth and it cannot be replaced. Enamel is also the substance in your teeth which keeps them white, and when it disappears it weakens the tooth and turns the area dull. Every time you eat the bacteria returns with a vengeance and eats away at the food, by producing acid. It is this acid which eventually over time dissolves your tooth enamel and causes cavities. 

Do You Rinse Out Toothpaste From Your Mouth?

If you do… don’t! 

The reason why dentists recommend that you leave the remaining toothpaste on your teeth is to naturalise acid left behind by the bacteria. Fluoride is a key ingredient in toothpaste and its main purpose is to counteract the secreted acid that the bacteria uses to digest sugar and starch from your teeth. By simply leaving the toothpaste on your teeth after brushing you are doing your mouth and teeth a favour by keeping them healthy and bacteria-fr