Facts That Bite Back
July 11, 2023
Dive into the fascinating world of dental facts as we explore the similarities between human and shark teeth! In honor of celebrating Shark Week, we’re unleashing a wave of toothy trivia. Get ready to sink your teeth into these fun facts that bite back!
A Jaw-Dropping Comparison
Did you know that sharks can have up to 15 rows of teeth at any given time? Just like a conveyor belt, their teeth continuously move forward to replace any lost or worn-out ones. Humans, on the other hand, only get two sets of teeth: 20 baby teeth and 32 permanent teeth. Although humans can’t regenerate teeth, we do have a dental lifesaver: fluoride! Fluoride strengthens our tooth enamel and helps prevent tooth decay.
Pearly ‘Great’ Whites Under Pressure
Sharks have incredibly strong teeth that can withstand tremendous pressure. Some sharks can exert up to 1.5 tons of bite force! Meanwhile, human teeth may not be as fierce, but they are still impressively strong. The enamel, the outer layer of a tooth, is even harder than your bones. So, when you bite into something crunchy, remember the power behind your pearly whites!
Bite Into This
Did you know that the largest shark tooth ever found measured over seven inches? Now that’s a toothy tale worth sinking your jaws into! Shark teeth come in various shapes and sizes, each serving a unique purpose.
Some shark teeth are long and pointed for grasping, while others are flat and serrated for tearing. Similarly, human teeth have specific roles. Incisors bite into food, canines tear it apart, and molars grind it down.
Smile, You’re in Good Company!
We hope these toothy trivia facts have left you in awe of the incredible world we live in. Whether you’re fascinated by the strength of shark teeth or the resilience of human teeth, celebrate Shark Week with a grin. Embrace your unique smile, and remember to visit your dentist regularly. We’ll help keep your teeth in tip-top shape, whether you have 32 teeth like an adult human or hundreds of teeth like a shark!