Shark Teeth Facts
Shark week is coming up so here are some fun facts about this impressive toothy predator.
Sharks have A LOT of Teeth
Humans only have one row of teeth, but sharks can have 15 rows at any given time. Unlike humans, sharks can regrow them and replace any lost or worn-out teeth. Though we don’t have the ability to regrow our adult teeth, we can do things to protect them from decaying or falling out. Going to routine dental checkups, brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and flossing can ensure our teeth are healthy. If you do have missing teeth, visit a Castle Dental office near you and ask about dental implants to restore your smile.
The Strength of Shark Teeth
It is no question that sharks are one of the most powerful creatures on our planet. A shark can exert up to 1.5 tons of bite force and their teeth can withstand enormous amounts of pressure. Talk about a strong jaw! Human teeth are also surprisingly strong. Though our bite can’t exert anywhere near the same amount of force as a shark, our teeth are made from enamel which is harder than our bones. This allows us to eat crunchy and hard foods. Unfortunately, enamel can erode so make sure to take care of it by brushing daily and avoiding foods that are overly acidic. If you do consume acidic foods, rinse your mouth with water after.
Different Types of Shark Teeth
Not all shark teeth look the same or have the same purpose. Their long and pointed teeth are used for grasping while the flat and serrated ones are used to tear. Similarly, different types of human teeth have specific roles. We use our incisors to bite town on our foods, our canines to tear, and our molars to grind.
We hope you are more enlightened by these shark facts. To learn more about them, tune into Discovery’s Shark Week! Keep embracing your unique smile, and let Castle Dental help you maintain those pearly whites! Find an office near you and book an appointment today! Whether you have 32 teeth like an adult human or hundreds of teeth like a shark, we’ll make sure your oral health is in tip-top shape.