It’s no secret that oral hygiene is important, but there are still a lot of myths and misconceptions about dental care. In this blog post, we’ll debunk five common dental hygiene myths and help you understand how to properly care for your teeth and gums. Keep reading to learn more!
1. Sugar Causes Cavities
Cavities are caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth. Sugar itself does not directly cause cavities, rather, it helps create the bacteria that lead to cavities and other oral health issues. When sugar mixes with saliva and bacteria in the mouth, it sticks to the teeth. If left on the teeth due to improper oral health care, the tooth enamel can become damaged, leading to tooth decay and cavities. Practicing proper oral care such as brushing and flossing at least twice a day allows you to be able to indulge in a sweet treat without the worry of developing a cavity.
2. The Harder You Brush, The Cleaner the Teeth
If brushing your teeth is one of the main ways to keep your oral hygiene in good shape, then it’s not possible to overdo it, right? Unfortunately, the answer to that question is wrong, there are some things that could be counterproductive if you do them while brushing your teeth. Brushing too hard or using a brush with stiff bristles can damage both your teeth and gums. Gum recession and enamel wear both can occur from brushing too hard, leading to further tooth sensitivity. The best way to brush your teeth is gently but thoroughly.
3. If My Teeth Are White, Then They Are Healthy
An identifying trait of a healthy smile in today’s society seems to relate to having shiny white teeth. However, it is possible to have glimmering white teeth that are unhealthy, as well as teeth that are not so white but are in great condition. All teeth start out as white, then over time hygiene and lifestyle habits such as diet can cause discoloration by staining or damage. However, the color of your teeth is not always an indicator of their health. You can have cavities and still possess white-colored teeth. Bad oral health issues are most likely to begin beneath the surface, not visible to the naked eye at first. Whitening your teeth will improve the outward appearance of your teeth, but it does not do anything past the physical aspect.
4. Oral Diseases Are Only a Concern for Your Mouth
Bacteria that is present due to oral diseases can spread to or even be a result of other parts of your body. Studies have connected gum disease to other bodily concerns such as heart disease, diabetes, and some forms of cancer. To learn about other parts of the body that can be affected by oral diseases, check out our article, Can Oral Health Affect Gut Health?
5. If Your Teeth Seem Fine, Then You Don’t Need to Have a Routine Exam
The purpose of a routine dental cleaning and exam is to keep your teeth in tip-top shape, as well as identify problems before they start. It can be detrimental if you think your teeth are in good shape and therefore you don’t have exams as often as you should. The longer problems such as a cavity or any type of disease go untreated, the harder they will be to treat once they are identified. You should have semi-annual dental exams in order to catch any problems early and get the proper treatment. Plus, you do usually get a free toothbrush for your visit, so that’s incentive enough right?
It’s important to do your own research and consult with a dental professional to find out what works best for you and your teeth. Don’t bevlieve everything you read on the internet – some of it may be false or outdated information. Getting into a good oral hygiene routine is essential for keeping your mouth healthy, so make sure to brush and floss regularly!