Tooth Truths
How many permanent teeth does an average adult have?
32 — aka a full mouth of chompers.
How long should you brush your teeth for each time?
2 minutes — 120 seconds of preventing stinky breath.
How often should you floss?
Once a day — yes, every day, not just when the dentist asks.
True or False: If your gums bleed, you should stop brushing.
False — keep brushing! Your gums are just being dramatic.
What dental professional cleans and helps keep your teeth healthy?
A dental hygienist — the real MVPs.
What part of the tooth is the hard, white outer layer?
Enamel — the tooth’s superhero armor.
How often should you replace your toothbrush?
Every 3 months — or sooner if it starts looking like a broom that lost a fight.
Why is flossing important even if you brush well?
It gets the gunk hiding between your teeth — the stuff your brush can’t reach unless it has superpowers.
True or False: Baby teeth don’t matter because they fall out anyway.
False — they matter A LOT. They’re placeholders for your big-kid teeth.
What do dental hygienists check for during an exam?
Plaque, gum health, cavities, and any sneaky tooth trouble.
True or False: Enamel can grow back once it’s gone.
False — once it’s gone, it’s gone… like your weekend.
How many times a day should you brush your teeth?
Twice a day — morning fresh, night clean.
What can happen to your gums if you don’t floss?
They can get puffy, angry, and start bleeding like they’re auditioning for a zombie movie.
True or False: Whitening toothpaste damages enamel.
False — as long as it’s approved, it’s safe. Not magic, but safe.
What is fluoride used for?
Strengthening your enamel so it's harder for cavities to win.
What is the soft inside layer of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels called?
The pulp — the tooth’s squishy, dramatic center.
What is one area most people forget to brush?
Their gumline — where all the plaque parties happen.
What should your gums NOT do when you floss correctly?
Bleed — if they bleed, they’re not mad at you… they’re just not used to flossing yet.
Can you get cavities even if you NEVER eat candy?
Yes — bacteria love all carbs, not just candy.
What’s the name of the sticky film that builds up on teeth before it hardens?
Plaque — the clingy stuff you don’t want around.
What do we call the big, flat teeth in the back that help you chew your food?
Your molars — the munching, crunching powerhouses.
Why is brushing your tongue important?
Because it holds bacteria and can make your breath smell like a dragon’s morning breath.
What is the early stage of gum disease called that can develop if you never floss?
Gingivitis — when your gums get swollen, irritated, and dramatic.
True or False: You only need to go to the dentist when something hurts.
False — that’s like only fixing your car once it explodes.
What is the hardened version of plaque called?
Tartar, now called calculus (not the math calculus) — plaque’s evolved, crusty form.