Fake News! Dispelling Common Dental Myths

Before we jump into common dental myths and misconceptions, let’s start with a truth. YOUR ORAL HEALTH MATTERS! How you take care of your teeth affects your overall health. We have said it many times before and will keep saying it! If you aren’t already, it is time to make your oral health a top priority for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Now let’s jump into some common misconceptions when it comes to taking care of your beautiful smile.

Myth #1: “If you brush your teeth harder, you can get them cleaner.”

While this may be the case for scrubbing floors, it is not the same for your teeth! The truth is, you can do more harm than good. Using an abrasive toothbrush or brushing your teeth too hard can erode some of the enamel that protects the insides of the tooth from decay and cavities. Most Dentists will recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush. 

Myth #2: “You only need to see your dentist if you are experiencing pain!”

No pain, no problem…not necessarily! The truth is, when it comes to oral health, people who don’t visit the dentist regularly end up paying the price. Even if everything seems normal, you must visit the dentist on a regular basis to prevent potential problems. Most dental health issues progress without pain until they’re in more advanced stages, when treatment is invasive and more expensive. The best way to maintain good oral health is to have dental exams every six months to identify any potential issues before it becomes a problem. 

Myth #3: “If I brush my teeth really well before going to the dentist, no one will be able to tell I haven’t been brushing regularly.”

Nice try! Hard tartar will form around your teeth if you don’t brush and floss regularly.  This type of tartar cannot be removed with brushing your teeth, no matter how hard you try. Additionally, the buildup of tartar and plaque create inflammation in your gums that is a dead giveaway.

Myth #4: “Only sugar causes cavities.”

Sugar by itself doesn’t cause cavities, but it certainly plays a role in the development of tooth decay. As the sugar you consumer breaks down, it feeds the bacteria that creates plaque in your mouth. Once the plaque builds up on your teeth,  the bacteria create an acidic environment that wears away the surface of the tooth and causes cavities. Sugar-free carbonated drinks, alcohol, citrus fruits, and starchy foods can also be blamed for damaging your teeth.

Myth #5: “Teeth-whitening products damage tooth enamel.”

The active ingredient in whitening products is safe in the recommended dosages. However, it is important to closely follow all directions.  Overusing a whitening product may damage your enamel, and remember, enamel can’t grow back. For the safest teeth-whitening treatment, visit a local dentist.  We would be happy to help you at Beaufort Center for Dentistry.

Myth #6: “You really don’t have to floss.”

Unfortunately, this myth has been perpetuated in media, but it will be tough for you to find a Dentist that says flossing isn’t necessary. Flossing is required to effectively remove harmful bacteria and food particles from in-between teeth.  If left alone, these particles can become plaque and then tartar, leading to more severe oral heath problems.

If you are looking for a new dentist, Dr. Costa and his team would love to see you at Beaufort Center for Dentistry. In network with all major dental insurances, we offer general and cosmetic dentistry. We are conveniently located in the Ribaut Professional Park at 1264 Ribaut Road in Beaufort, S.C. Call us today to schedule an appointment at (843) 524-7950.

Categorised in: Dental Tips, General