Biology
What is the basic unit of life?
What is a cell?
How many primary (baby) teeth do humans have?
20
What specialty deals with straightening teeth using braces or aligners?
Orthodontics
You should brush your teeth right after drinking something acidic.
False (Wait ~30 minutes)
How many times a day do dentists recommend brushing your teeth?
2 times a day
Which organelle is known as the “powerhouse of the cell”?
What is the mitochondrion?
What is the hardest substance in the human body?
Enamel
Which specialty focuses on root canal therapy?
Endodontics
Cavities can spread from one tooth to another.
True (bacteria can spread)
For how long should you brush your teeth each time?
2 minutes
What type of biomolecule are enzymes?
What are proteins?
Which teeth are known as the “fangs” and help tear food?
Canines
Which specialty is concerned with the gums and supporting structures of teeth?
Periodontics
Baby teeth aren’t important because they fall out anyway.
False (They guide adult tooth alignment)
What is the recommended frequency for changing your toothbrush or toothbrush head?
Every 3 months (or sooner if bristles fray)
Which process do cells use to make energy in the presence of oxygen?
What is cellular respiration / aerobic respiration?
What is the universal tooth number for the upper right first molar?
Tooth #3
What specialty treats patients who need full mouth rehabilitation (crowns, dentures, implants)?
Prosthodontics
Whitening toothpaste can permanently change the natural color of teeth.
False (Only removes surface stains)
Which should you use first for best cleaning: floss or brushing?
Floss first (removes debris so fluoride can reach between teeth)
What is the term for programmed cell death?
What is apoptosis?
What is the sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth called?
Plaque
What specialty focuses on oral surgery such as extractions, jaw surgery, and facial trauma?
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
The amount sugar itself causes cavities more than frequency of eating sugar.
False (Frequency & exposure time matter more)
What ingredient in toothpaste helps protect against cavities by strengthening tooth enamel?
Fluoride