5 Popular Dental Myths Debunked by a Local Dentist

These days, you can find the answer to just about any question you have online. The level of accessibility is great on one-hand, but it still presents some challenges. For starters, there is the problem of vetting the information you encounter. How are you to determine what’s legitimate? One way to go about it is to consider the perspective of a dentist in Pleasant Grove. Therefore, you won’t have to guess. As you continue reading, 5 common dental myths are scrutinized so you can be better informed and achieve the best in oral health!

Myth #1 – Sugar Consumption is a Direct Cause of Cavities

This is a tricky one because sugar is the food of choice of oral bacteria. However, there isn’t a direct correlation between sugar consumption and cavity formation. What factors greater is what you do after eating (as in your oral hygiene practices). If the residue is allowed to remain in your mouth, then the microorganisms will feed and release caustic fluids as they digest the food. This can lead to plaque formation and, eventually, cavities.

Myth #2 – You Should Place Aspirin on Your Gums to Soothe a Toothache

The first reason that this is a bad idea is that aspirin is most effective when it enters the bloodstream. Thus, placing it on the gums provides minimal, at best, pain relief. Another potential issue is it causing gum irritation. To be on the safe side, stick to only ingesting aspirin when you’re experiencing any discomfort.

Myth #3 – You Can Avoid Dental Visits by Keeping Your Teeth Clean

While it’s of the utmost importance to practice excellent dental hygiene, it shouldn’t be considered as a substitute for visiting a dentist every six months for preventive care. Despite your best efforts, a cavity or some other issue can develop. By receiving care in a timely fashion, you can avoid complex treatments.

Myth #4 – If Your Teeth are White, They’re Healthy

You’ve probably heard the phrase, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” This aptly applies to the appearance of your teeth. Your ivories can sport a gleaming, white sheen, but a cavity or gum disease can quietly be developing. This is another reason why it’s critical to maintain regular visits to a dentist.

Myth #5 – The Harder You Brush Your Teeth, the Cleaner They’ll be

Vigorously brushing your teeth won’t necessarily translate into cleaner ivories. Instead, it can place you at a higher risk of damaging your enamel and irritating your gums.

Here’s the safer and more effective approach to take:

• Use a toothbrush with soft bristles.
• Focus on using proper technique, which should include holding the toothbrush away from your gums and moving in small-circular patterns.
• Be consistent in your brushing routine, cleaning your teeth at least two times a day.

When it’s all said and done, protecting your teeth and gums starts with having the right information. The next step is to apply the knowledge you’ve acquired. By ensuring that these two steps are covered, you can enjoy excellent dental health for years to come!

About the Author

Along with providing top-notch care, Dr. Bob E. Tafel enjoys educating his patients so they can become better stewards of their dental health. He provides superb care at Bear Creek Family Dentistry, and he can be reached for more information through his website.