Teeth are incredible little things, with enamel as unique as mother-of-pearl, each evolved to do a very specific job. With National Smile Month here, it’s the perfect time to celebrate them. This UK-wide campaign shines a light on keeping your mouth healthy with simple habits: brushing twice a day, cleaning between your teeth, cutting back on sugar, and scheduling regular check-ups.
At Park Dental Care here in Nottingham, we champion these practices year-round, helping every smile stay strong. To mark the occasion, here are five fascinating dental facts that might just surprise you – read on and see if you can guess what the first fillings were made of!
5 Dental Facts to Make You Smile
Enamel’s Tougher Than Steel
Your tooth enamel is the hardest stuff in your body – significantly stronger than any bone. But acids and bacteria can still wear it down, and once it’s gone, it’s gone for good. That’s why I’m always banging on about preventive care – it keeps that armour intact.
Your Strongest Muscle is in your Jaw
Forget biceps – the strongest muscle by force is your masseter, the one that powers your chewing. It can exert up to 200 pounds of pressure! You would be amazed at how much work your jaws do, which is why it is so important that your teeth match together perfectly..
Teeth Tell Your Story
Like tree rings, your teeth reveal all sorts – your age, even what you ate years ago. Scientists have studied ancient teeth to learn about diets from centuries past. Every time I check a client’s teeth, I’m reminded they’re like unique fingerprints, full of clues.
Beeswax Fillings? Really!
The earliest known filling, found in a 6,500-year-old tooth, was made of beeswax. Can you imagine? We’ve come a long way – today at Park Dental Care, we use white composite fillings that blend seamlessly with your teeth, looking natural and lasting years.
A Dentist Invented Candyfloss
I love this one – a dentist, William Morrison, co-created candyfloss in 1897. Talk about irony! It was a hit at a 1904 fair, but I tell my clients to stick to the other kind of floss – daily, to clear plaque and keep gum disease at bay.
How We Can Brighten Your Smile
Teeth are fascinating, and after nearly 25 years caring for Nottingham’s smiles, I’m still hooked on helping them shine. My team spends half their time on cosmetic dentistry, using the latest tech to make a difference.
Here are five ways we can help at Park Dental Care:
Teeth Whitening
It’s not just for celebs anymore! My favourite’s our at-home teeth whitening kit – after a 3D scan, we make custom trays you wear overnight with safe whitening gel. In 6–8 weeks, your smile’s noticeably brighter, all while you sleep.
Veneers
These thin porcelain or composite shells fix chipped, worn or mis-shapen teeth and hide disolouration, giving you a balanced, natural look. I’ve seen clients light up after getting them – they’re low-maintenance and last over a decade.
Crowns
Think of these as tooth-shaped caps that cover damaged or irregular teeth. They hide flaws, close gaps, and strengthen what’s there. I’ve had clients amazed at how natural they feel and look.
Orthodontics
Forget clunky childhood braces – modern options like Invisalign are practically invisible. With our 3D scanning, we can show you exactly how your smile will look after treatment. It’s a confidence-booster for all ages.
Hygienist Visits
A professional clean with our hygienists is like a reset – clearing plaque and tartar that brushing can’t touch. It can prevent gum trouble, keep breath fresh, and even help detect early health issues. I tell clients it’s the secret to a lasting smile.
National Smile Month’s a brilliant reminder to care for your teeth, but I’m passionate about keeping that focus all year. A healthy smile isn’t just about looks – it helps you eat, talk, and feel your best. I’ve seen how small habits, like a great brushing technique and regular visits can transform lives, and it’s why I love what I do.
If you’re curious about your smile or want to make it shine even brighter, give our friendly Park Dental Care team a on 0115 9101447 or book a free consultation online. I’d love to help you celebrate your smile – not just this month, but always!
