I’m Corbet Locke, a Waco general and sedation dentist. Lately I have been focusing on major issues like gum disease, tooth pain, and sleep apnea in the blog. A common phrase often quoted is, “Thank God it’s Friday!” So for my readers who have had a stressful week, I thought I would lighten the mood and help you start off a great weekend with a few fun dental facts:
In Egypt, mummies had tooth fillings made of resin and malachite (a semi-precious green stone). Gold wire was used to hold loose teeth together.
In 201 AD, some Romans had gold crowns and fixed bridgework. They used a paste of honey and ground eggshells to clean teeth.
Ancient Greeks used talc, coral powder, iron rust, alabaster, or pumice as toothpaste.
In the 1950s, the average amount of money left by the Tooth Fairy was $.25. Now, depending on the region, the Tooth Fairy will leave between $1 and $5.
Elephants grind down their molars and grow new ones six times in their lifetime.
People have 32 adult teeth, including their wisdom teeth. Dogs have 42, cats have 30, pigs have 44, and armadillos have 104 teeth!
People buy 18 yards of dental floss yearly. The American Dental Association states 122 yards should be used.
Americans consume approximately 600 cans of soda a year. Soda contributes to acid erosion of teeth, as well as cavities.
People spend more on lottery tickets ($300 billion) than on dental care ($50 billion) a year!
Remember, oral health affects overall health. Call my Waco dentist office at (254)776-4888 to schedule your six-month dental appointment. Have a happy and safe weekend!