The English language is full of idioms and expressions that don’t always make sense. Why exactly do we refer to something overly-sentimental as “cheesy?” Or why does a downpour mean that it’s “raining cats and dogs?” But when it comes to tooth-related phrases, we have a plethora of sayings! Here, your Chicago dentists explain some of the most common expressions and outline whether they express any truths about general dentistry or oral health.
At Wicker Park Dental Group, we are committed to patient education – and not just related to dental and grammatical trivia! If you ever have questions about your dental health or treatment options, we are happy to help.
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“By the Skin of Your Teeth”
To say “by the skin of your teeth” is equivalent to saying “just barely” or “a close call.” The origin of the phrase is the Old Testament, Job 19:20. Job is describing the illness that afflicts him when he says, “My bones cling to my skin, and I have escaped by the skin of my teeth.”
Obviously, teeth don’t have skin – but they do have a protective outer layer, just like the rest of your body! The surface of your teeth is enamel, which prevents bacteria from penetrating your teeth and causing cavities.
“Set Your Teeth on Edge”
If something sets your teeth on edge, you find it extremely irritating. This is another unusual Biblical phrase that has made its way into common usage in English. In Jeremiah 31:30, the prophet proclaims, “[T]he teeth of anyone who eats unripe grapes shall be set on edge.” In this context, having one’s teeth set on edge is clearly punishment for wrongdoing.
In fact, eating certain foods can cause an unpleasant tingling or zinging sensation if you suffer from dental sensitivity. In these instances, you may want to avoid acidic, sugary, very cold, and very hot foods. At the same time, sensitivity is often a symptom of a dental issue, so you should check with your dentist if you suffer from this problem.
“Long in the tooth”
If you tell someone they’re getting long in the tooth, it’s not exactly a compliment – you’ve just told them they’re getting pretty old! The earliest known use of this phrase is in Thackeray’s The History of Henry Esmond, Esq., published in 1852. Though the novelist uses it to describe a woman, the phrase originates with horses. Equine teeth continue to grow throughout life, so you can estimate a horse’s age based on the size of its teeth.
Human teeth stop growing once they erupt fully. However, it is possible to appear long in the tooth if you suffer from gum recession. Recession is often a symptom of periodontitis, which particularly affects older patients. Over 70% of adults above age 65 suffer from some degree of gum disease.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Chicago Dentists
To learn about dental health or to schedule an appointment, contact Wicker Park Dental Group today. Not only can we keep you informed about your oral wellness; we can treat a wide range of conditions, including those mentioned here – enamel erosion, tooth sensitivity, and gum disease.
Book an appointment online or call us at 773-276-5566.
Related Services: General Dentistry
