Teeth: Bone or Not? Fun Facts & The Science Behind Your Pearly Whites

Teeth are a peculiar part of the human body. We see and use them every single day, yet people tend to know very little about teeth. Through dentists and public knowledge, people understand the need for brushing teeth regularly to maintain a good level of health. However, the reasons behind these common practices aren’t common knowledge. But have you ever wondered if teeth are bones or not? And how does that affect the way you treat them?

Are Teeth Bones?

This is the fundamental question with which most people begin. Teeth are certainly strong and have the same color as bones. Human teeth are also rich in calcium just like bones. However, are bones really the same as teeth? Despite being a common misconception, teeth aren’t exactly bones. If this is true, than why do so many people believe that teeth are bones? In reality, most people look at the similarities between teeth and bones and assume they are the same thing. A quick Google search clears up this myth very quickly however.

What Are Teeth Made Of?

Teeth can be broken down into different sections with each being comprised of a different material. Enamel, the outer layer of the teeth, is made up of a mixture of minerals of which calcium phosphate is the primary mineral. Enamel is actually the hardest substance produced by the human body. This hard, protective layer helps to keep the inner workings of the teeth safe. Dentin lies underneath the enamel and takes up most of the teeth. Unlike the enamel, dentin is made up of living tissue and is more comparable to bone. The pulp is the smallest area of the teeth and houses the nerves and blood vessels.

Fundamental Differences

Comparing teeth with bones can be troublesome when people begin expecting the two to act similarly. There are some fundamental differences between bones and teeth that are very important to realize. Because of their structural differences, bones and teeth have different healing capabilities. After receiving damage, bones begin repairing themselves fairly quickly. On the other hand, enamel has no self-repairing capabilities. Any damage to this portion of the tooth requires dentist intervention. Furthermore, enamel can’t regrow after decay caused by cavities. Dentists are truly the only hope we have for fixing teeth.

Caring For Teeth

Because of the structural and healing differences between teeth and bones, care and maintenance will vary greatly. As long as we keep our bones fed the right nutrients and don’t break them, everything should be fine. With teeth however, we must care for them multiple times per day. It is generally recommended to brush your teeth twice daily: once in the morning and once in the night. Flossing is also an important component that can be done during the night brush. Our teeth should be taken care of meticulously to help prevent any damage or pain.