BY ARISSA

In my presentation I will cover:  Key facts about our teeth  How to keep your teeth clean  How to brush your teeth

 The enamel on the top surface on your tooth is the hardest part of your entire body.  Teeth start to form even before you are born—milk teeth or baby teeth start to form when the baby is in the womb, but they come through when the child is between months old.  Humans use four different types of teeth (incisors, canine, premolars, and molars) to cut, tear and grind their food.

 Humans have only two sets of teeth in their entire lifetime—baby teeth and permanent teeth. Once you have your permanent teeth, make sure you take good care of them.  No two people have the same set of teeth—your teeth are as unique as your fingerprint, so be proud of your unique set of teeth.  Your mouth produces over 25,000 quarts of saliva in a lifetime—that’s enough to fill two swimming pools.  An average person spends 38.5 days brushing their teeth over their lifetime.  Many diseases are linked to your oral health, including heart disease, osteoporosis, and diabetes.  One third of your tooth is underneath your gums—that means only two thirds of your tooth’s length is visible.  If you get your tooth knocked out, put it in milk and hold it in your mouth—this will help your tooth to survive longer. Make sure you see a dentist right away.

When your tooth falls out it starts to bleed, sometimes you will feel a funny taste in your mouth. Your teeth fall out because they are being pushed out by your next set of teeth.

 Brush at least twice a day — after breakfast and before bedtime. If you can, brush after lunch or after sweet snacks. Brushing properly breaks down plaque.  Brush all of your teeth, not just the front ones. Spend some time on the teeth along the sides and in the back. Have your dentist show you the best way to brush to get your teeth clean without damaging your gums.  Take your time while brushing. Spend at least 2 or 3 minutes each time you brush. If you have trouble keeping track of the time, use a timer or play a recording of a song you like to help pass the time.  Be sure your toothbrush has soft bristles (the package will tell you if they're soft). Ask your parent to help you get a new toothbrush every 3 months. Some toothbrushes come with bristles that change color when it's time to change them.

 Ask your dentist if an antibacterial mouth rinse is right for you.  Learn how to floss your teeth, which is a very important way to keep them healthy. It feels weird the first few times you do it, but pretty soon you'll get the hang if it.  Slip the dental floss between each tooth and along the gumline gently once a day. The floss gets rid of food that's hidden where your toothbrush can't get it, no matter how well you brush.  You can also brush your tongue to help keep your breath fresh!