Each and every one of us has probably heard (and potentially believed) a number of myths surrounding the best ways to care for our health. While many of these misconceptions are relatively harmless, the real problem comes in when the false information being circulated can actually take a negative toll on your well-being.
When it comes to the health and safety of your teeth, gums, and jaw, there are a few common myths that you’re better off not believing.
Common Oral Health Myths to Stop Believing
The Harder You Brush Your Teeth, the Cleaner They’ll Be
If you’re someone who really puts in a lot of elbow grease when you brush your teeth, you are likely doing more harm than good. Brushing too hard can actually cause a lot of erosion on your teeth, wearing away your enamel.
Without that enamel there to protect your teeth, you may be more at risk for sensitivity and decay. To protest against erosion, use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub your teeth clean.
Your Dentist Won’t Be Able to Tell if You’ve Skipped Brushing
There’s this idea that, if you haven’t maintained a good oral hygiene routine, you can quickly brush your teeth, floss, and rinse your way to healthy teeth right before a dental visit. However, no matter how long you brush before you see your dentist, the bacteria that you neglected to brush away has built up over time and will be very apparent to your dentist’s eye.
The only way to get a clean bill of oral health from your dentist is to brush and floss two times a day, every day.
Cavities are Only Caused By Sugar
While sugar definitely can be a main cause of cavities, the real culprit is a bit more general. Cavities can form when anything starchy remains on your teeth — since they contain sugars that can cause decay
To avoid decay and resulting cavities, cut down on how many starchy foods you eat, such as potatoes, bread, and sugary foods. If you do indulge a bit, make sure to brush your teeth shortly afterward.
Bleeding Gums Can Be Ignored
Have you ever brushed your teeth and, when you go to rinse, spit to see traces of red in the sink? More often than not, that’s the result of bleeding gums. Gums typically bleed because they’re inflamed, likely due to bacteria buildup, stuck food particles, or cavities.
While bleeding may be something you can ignore if it only happens once (perhaps from a piece of food in between your teeth that you can remove by flossing), if your gums bleed regularly, that is something you should address — frequent bleeding is often a sign of gum disease. If left unresolved, gum disease can turn in periodontal disease and lead to more serious health issues.
You Can’t Fix Broken or Missing Teeth
If you crack, chip, or lose an adult tooth, don’t think that you have to live with the pain and inconvenience of damaged teeth. In fact, you shouldn’t: these issues typically get worse over time.
Chipped or cracked teeth can often be repaired using dental bonding, dental crowns, or veneers. If you lose a tooth or need an extraction, a dental implant can be placed in the empty space, or a dental bridge can be placed over an implant to cover multiple teeth.
When you’re in need of expert, compassionate dental care in Spring Hill, Tennessee, and the surrounding areas, trust the team at Dentistry By Design. We will be open with you regarding every appointment and procedure, and we will work closely with you to develop a plan that addresses your immediate dental needs and your ongoing oral health.
To schedule a consultation at our office, contact us online or give us a call at (931) 771-8500.