Truth is stranger than fiction, and that applies to dental facts, too. Most people don’t think all that much about their teeth other than to go about their everyday routine to keep them clean. When something hurts, they call their dentist. Other than that, teeth aren’t usually a subject that most people spend a lot of time thinking or talking about. These strange but true dental facts may change your mind about how interesting teeth really are.
Mayan Bejewelled Teeth
Mayans may be best known at present for their “end of the world” prediction but 2,500 years ago, they also appreciated the appeal of enhancing their appearance by making their smiles more attractive. While we are focusing on making our look more shiny and bright by using various means of whitening our teeth, they took it up several notches by using drills to decorate their teeth. In some cases, they would have part of the tooth removed or shaped to create a different look!
Some people would go for a jewelled look by having holes made in their teeth which were then fitted with gemstones. Men underwent this procedure more often than women. It took great skill to fit a jewel into a tooth without breaking it.
Learn more about frequently asked questions.
Ancient Egyptian and Roman Dentists
Evidence gathered from Egyptian mummies has proved that dentistry was practiced in ancient times. Fillings made from resin and malachite have been found, and gold wire was used to hold loose teeth together.
In 200 A.D., the Romans were filling cavities with gold crowns. Bridgework was being used at that point to fix gaps between teeth. They also used crushed eggshells and honey to make toothpaste.
More Strange but True Dental Facts
• The plaque your dentist is always warning you not to let build up on your teeth contains more than 300 different species of bacteria. If that isn’t a good reason to make sure you brush and floss twice daily, then we don’t know how to persuade you!
• A snail’s mouth is roughly the size of the head of a pin. It can contain over 25,000 teeth!
• Over 40 percent of North Americans have at least one tooth that could benefit from some type of dental treatment.
If it’s been at least six months since you have seen a dentist, don’t wait until something hurts to get a check-up. Regular preventive care is important for your health. Call us at Pickering Square Dental to schedule your appointment today.
Helpful Resources
For more information, visit the Canadian Dental Association Oral Health.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Contact Pickering Square Dental to book your appointment with Dr. Marvin Lean. Call us at (905) 420-1777 or visit us at 1450 Kingston Rd, Unit #4, Pickering, ON.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I visit the dentist?
The Canadian Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. Some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs. Call Pickering Square Dental at (905) 420-1777 to schedule your next appointment.
Do you accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
Yes, Pickering Square Dental participates in the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Our team can help you understand your coverage and ensure you receive the dental care you need. Contact us for more details about CDCP eligibility and benefits.
What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?
We offer a full range of dental services including family dentistry, emergency dental care, sedation dentistry, dental implants, laser dentistry, teeth whitening, root canal therapy, dental extractions, periodontal care, and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Lean and our team serve patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Scarborough.
About Dr. Marvin Lean, DDS
Dr. Marvin Lean, DDS, is the owner and lead dentist at Pickering Square Dental. With decades of experience in family and laser dentistry, Dr. Lean is also the official dentist of the Toronto Maple Leafs. He is a member of the Ontario Dental Association (ODA) and the Canadian Dental Association (CDA). Dr. Lean and his team provide comprehensive dental care including sedation dentistry, dental implants, emergency dental care, and the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) to patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Scarborough, Oshawa, and Markham.
