Humans have 206 bones in their bodies, but we also have teeth. These are not bones, of course, but calcified structures that give us the chewing ability and help us chew food so we can digest it. Knowing what makes our teeth different from bones is important for understanding why they are not bones. Bones are rigid and porous, with limited ability to repair themselves when damaged or broken; this is why broken bones take a long time to heal. Teeth, on the other hand, are made of dense tissue and can be repaired easily because they contain numerous blood vessels that supply them with nutrients. Here are five key differences between our teeth and our bones!
Teeth are not rigid unlike bones
Bones are rigid, but teeth are not. One of the biggest differences between our teeth and bones is that teeth are not rigid, even though they are harder than bones. Teeth are not rigid because they contain minerals like calcium and phosphorus, and a small number of organic materials as well. From the way they look to how they heal, teeth are quite different from the body’s bones. Teeth are composed of calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals. Bones contain calcium, phosphorus, sodium and other minerals, but mostly consist of the protein collagen.
Bones, on the other hand, contain an organic substance called collagen that makes them rigid. Bones are rigid because they also have a very dense structure. Teeth are not that rigid, which is why they are easier to repair when damaged or decayed.
Teeth, like bones, contain calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals. But there’s one substance that teeth don’t have—collagen. Collagen is a type of protein, considered as “the glue that holds the body together”. Unlike a broken bone, a broken tooth cannot mend itself.
Our teeth have limited repair ability
Our bones have a limited ability to repair the damage, which is why we must take care of them properly. Teeth, on the other hand, are filled with blood vessels that help make them repairable. Our teeth can repair even when they are fully developed. Teeth can repair themselves because they are filled with tiny vessels that circulate blood.
Since our bones have no blood vessels inside them, they cannot repair themselves, which is why people need to wear orthodontic braces to realign their teeth.
Teeth can repair themselves because they have a pulp inside that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. As long as these remain undamaged, our teeth can repair themselves without medical help. Teeth become less repairable as we age because the vessels inside them shrink, and the tissue becomes less flexible.
Teeth is full of blood vessels.
Blood vessels inside our teeth circulate oxygen and nutrients to keep them healthy and strong. These blood vessels also help teeth repair themselves when damaged. Bones have no blood vessels, so they cannot repair themselves or be nourished by blood.
People use bone grafting to correct bone damage, and they use dental implants to replace missing teeth. People who get bone grafting need to take extra care of their teeth because they need to protect them from any chewing or biting damage.
Teeth can be discoloured by staining foods.
Our teeth can become discoloured if we regularly eat foods that stain them. Stained teeth are less attractive, and they can also be sensitive to hot and cold foods. Teeth can be stained by regular use of certain beverages, such as coffee, red wine, and tea.
Teeth can also be stained by certain foods, such as berries, beets, and carrots. If teeth are discoloured, we can reduce staining by avoiding beverages and foods that stain teeth. We can also use special products to remove stains from teeth, such as teeth whitening products.
While teeth and bones might appear to be the same material at first glance, they’re actually quite different. Bones can repair and heal themselves, while teeth cannot. Teeth are more fragile in that respect, which is why it’s so important to practice good dental hygiene and see a dentist regularly.
Conclusion
Our teeth are not bones, but they are still important. Teeth are necessary for chewing food and allowing us to digest it properly. They can also be beautiful and white if we take care of them properly. Teeth are important for our overall health, and taking care of them properly will help us feel and look our best.
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