It is natural for myths and misunderstandings to circulate in a world full of people with diverse opinions and perceptions. As a result, it is frequently difficult to distinguish between fact and fiction. This is also true when it comes to oral health. Let’s debunk some of the most common oral health myths – we’ll give you the facts on how to keep your teeth and gums in good health.
1. Brushing Your Teeth Hard Makes them Cleaner
It is one of the more common ones. In reality, brushing your teeth too vigorously can cause more harm than good. This can harm your teeth by causing the protective layer of enamel on the surface of the teeth to erode. It can also cause your gums to bleed or even recede in some cases. Brushing your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush without using too much pressure is recommended.
2. You Can Avoid Flossing if you Brush Your Teeth Regularly
Many people skip flossing because they believe that brushing regularly is enough to maintain good dental hygiene. This could not be further from the truth. Brushing and flossing serve different purposes in your dental hygiene routine. Toothbrushes frequently fail to clean difficult-to-reach areas of the mouth, such as the space between the teeth. Conversely, flossing can help you remove food particles and debris that can lead to the growth of bacteria and, ultimately, cavities or tooth decay.
3. Sugar Rots Your Teeth
We’ve listened to this since we were kids, probably to keep us from eating too many lollipops and sweets. However, the amount of sugar consumed by a child (or an adult) is not the true culprit. The real issue is how long that sugar remains on your teeth. So, if you brush and floss your teeth twice a day and practice good oral hygiene, those sweet treats won’t be too bad for your teeth.
4. It is Advisable to Avoid a Dentist During Pregnancy
Many women avoid going to the cosmetic dentist even for routine dental checkups. They are most concerned about receiving dental X-rays, citing radiation’s negative impact on the baby. On the other hand, dentists are trained professionals who are well-equipped to handle and care for a pregnant woman’s oral health. Furthermore, dramatic hormonal changes during pregnancy can impact your oral health. It is even more critical to see your dentist during this time.
5. Chewing Gum is a Plausible Alternative to Brushing
When they are pressed for time, many people will substitute chewing gum for brushing their teeth. However, this practice could be better. While chewing gum has some advantages, such as increasing saliva production and washing away acid and sugar buildup on the teeth, it cannot provide the same results as brushing.
6. You Need to go to a Dentist Only When Something is Wrong
Whether it’s dental anxiety or a lack of awareness, nothing can justify skipping a regular check-up with your cosmetic dentist, even if everything appears to be fine with your oral health. Regular dental check-ups are more like preventive care, as they help identify potential issues and address them before they become severe and cause pain and discomfort. Even if you don’t have any oral health issues, it’s a good idea to see your dentist twice a year.
7. Diabetics Don’t Require any Special Dental Care
People are generally unaware that diabetes and oral health are inextricably linked. The cause of gum disease in some people can be traced back to blood sugar issues. Diabetes patients must receive specialized dental care under the supervision of a qualified dentist.
8. Teeth Whitening can Damage Your Enamel
Many people believe that teeth whitening can cause enamel erosion. This belief is most likely the result of some non-professional whitening solutions that harm your teeth and gums. Professional teeth whitening, on the other hand, performed under the supervision of a dentist, is both effective and safe.
