Fun Facts from Mama Gums

Check back here often for fun facts about your gums, your teeth, and your overall health.

FUN FACT — Dentists in the old days would quickly transplant live teeth, often stolen from the dead, into their patients’ jawbones. Now, wouldn’t it just be easier to keep your own?

FUN FACT — No time to brush? A chewing gum made from Xylitol (a natural sweetener made from birch trees) helps to prevent cavities. In the presence of Xylitol, bacteria can’t stick to teeth, reducing tooth decay and improving dental health. You can buy it at www.sprydental.com.

FUN FACT — Can you imagine a purple carrot? It seems that carrots originated in Afghanistan, and what appears to be a “purple carrot” is featured on Egyptian temple walls dating back more than 4,000 years. The purple carrot was the norm in India, Europe, and throughout the Middle East.

FUN FACT — In an average lifetime, a person produces 10,000 gallons of saliva. As we age, our saliva diminishes, making us more vulnerable to dental infections as well as bad breath.

FUN FACT — For those who are calorie conscious, a 60-second kiss burns 26 calories. Although kissing is a tender way to express affection, it could be a dangerous pastime. Did you know (in addition to sexually transmitted diseases) we can transmit bacteria responsible for tooth decay and gum disease?

FUN FACT — 86% of dogs over 4 years old have periodontal disease and its tell-tale bad breath. So, when Fido lavishes kisses on your face and mouth, beware. He could be giving you his germs!

FUN FACT — Periodontal disease, which is a bacterial infection, doesn't need to be treated with surgery! If you had an infected thumb, would you cut it off?