Did You Know? 20 Cool Dental Facts for Kids to Learn About Teeth

1. Your teeth are as unique as your fingerprints!

No two sets of teeth are exactly alike—not even for identical twins. The shape, size, and alignment of your teeth are special to you, just like your fingerprints. That is part of what makes your smile so unique and wonderful.

2. Your enamel is the hardest substance in your body.

Did you know the enamel on your teeth is even stronger than your bones? It is the tough outer layer that protects your teeth from everyday wear and tear, like chewing and biting. But even though it is super strong, it can still get damaged by acidic foods and sugary drinks. That’s why brushing and flossing are so important!

3. You’ll only grow two sets of teeth in your life.

We are lucky to have two chances to grow teeth—our baby teeth and then our adult teeth. Baby teeth start falling out around age six and are replaced by 32 adult teeth, which are meant to last a lifetime. Since we don’t get a third set, it’s important to take good care of the ones we have!

4. Toothbrushes were invented thousands of years ago.

The first toothbrushes weren’t like the ones we use today. People used frayed twigs to clean their teeth in ancient times! Luckily, modern toothbrushes are much more effective (and comfortable), helping us keep our smiles clean and healthy.

5. A tooth can grow before you’re even born.

Baby teeth start forming under the gums before you are born. That’s why most babies have their first tooth show up by 6 to 12 months old. Isn’t it amazing to think about how early our smiles start developing?

6. Flossing cleans 40% of your tooth surfaces.

Brushing alone is not enough to keep your teeth completely clean. Flossing reaches the spaces between your teeth and along the gum line, where food and bacteria like to hide. Skipping flossing means leaving behind almost half of your tooth surfaces uncleaned!

7. Your teeth are covered in a protective shield.

The enamel on your teeth acts like a shield, protecting the sensitive layers underneath from hot, cold, and sweet foods. But enamel needs our help to stay strong. Brushing, flossing, and eating healthy foods keep it strong and healthy.

8. Baby teeth fall out in the same order they came in.

If you have ever wondered why certain teeth fall out first, it is because baby teeth usually fall out in the same order they came in. The bottom front teeth are usually the first to go, followed by the top front teeth. It’s a fun pattern that helps make room for adult teeth.

9. There are more than 300 kinds of bacteria in your mouth.

Your mouth is home to a bustling community of bacteria—some helpful and some not-so-helpful. Brushing and flossing help keep the harmful bacteria in check, making your mouth a healthier place.

10. The tooth fairy has been around for over 100 years.

The tradition of the tooth fairy started in the early 1900s. I think it’s so fun that kids all over the world celebrate the loss of baby teeth in different ways. Some kids leave their teeth under their pillow, while others toss them onto the roof for good luck!

11. Dolphins only have one set of teeth for life.

Unlike us, dolphins are born with just one set of teeth that they keep forever. Since they do not get replacements, they have to take extra care of their teeth.

12. Sharks lose teeth all the time—but they grow back.

Sharks can grow thousands of teeth in their lifetime because they continuously replace old ones. I think it is fascinating how nature works differently for different creatures!

13. The average person spends 38 days brushing their teeth in a lifetime.

If you brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day, you will spend more than a month of your life brushing. It’s a small amount of time for such an important task that keeps your smile healthy.

14. Saliva is your teeth’s best friend.

Saliva plays a big role in keeping your mouth healthy. It washes away food particles, neutralizes acids, and even helps fight cavities. Your mouth produces about a quart of saliva every day—enough to fill up a big soda bottle!

15. Teeth can’t heal themselves.

Unlike your skin or bones, teeth cannot heal or regenerate if they are damaged. That’s why it’s so important to protect them from cavities and injuries. Preventive care really makes a difference.

16. A crocodile has built-in “dentists.”

Crocodiles have little birds called plovers that act like their dentists! These birds clean the crocodiles’ teeth by picking out food stuck between them. What a cool partnership!

17. Cavities are the most common dental problem.

Cavities, or tooth decay, are the most common dental issue for kids and adults alike. They happen when bacteria produce acids that erode enamel. But the good news is cavities are preventable with proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits.

18. Brushing your teeth can prevent bad breath.

Bad breath, also called halitosis, is often caused by bacteria in your mouth. Brushing, flossing, and cleaning your tongue help keep your breath fresh and your mouth healthy.

19. Your tongue is a cleaning machine!

Your tongue helps move food off your teeth while you eat, but it’s important to brush it too. A clean tongue keeps your whole mouth fresher and healthier.

20. Smiling is good for your health!

Smiling isn’t just a sign of happiness—it actually makes you feel happier by releasing endorphins, the body’s feel-good chemicals. Taking care of your teeth helps keep your smile healthy, so you can share it with the world.

Bonus Tip: Make Dental Health Fun!

Learning about teeth can be exciting when you share these fun facts with your kids. I hope these tidbits encourage your child to brush, floss, and take pride in their smile. A healthy smile is a happy smile! If it’s time for your child’s next dental checkup, schedule an appointment with our team in Whitby, Ontario today. We are here to help keep those unique, strong teeth shining bright!