Common Dental myths play an important role in our daily life. We all know how important our oral health is! Even though we brush and floss regularly, use fluoride toothpaste, and visit hospital for check-ups, there are a lot of errors we make on how to take care of the teeth.
Taking care of our teeth protects us from bad breath, cavities and gum diseases. Of course, it is hard to keep track of what is good and bad for our health. But with more information available all the time, it is important to know what is safe and what is unsafe for your teeth. We, Sky dental care has busted some of the common myths about oral health to improve your smile.
The more you brush, the healthier your teeth
Brushing too hard can actually cause harm to your teeth. It erodes the hard enamel that protects the inside of the tooth from cavities, decay and receding gums. Most of the people suggest brushing after a meal as a good dental myth. But brushing within 30 minutes after a meal can weaken your tooth enamel. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush with a gentle technique may help you for better teeth.
Flossing is not much important – Common Dental Myth
When people think about oral health, most people think about only brushing. At the same time, Flossing is not seen as much necessary – this is the common dental myth that stuck in the minds of many people. But the fact is, Flossing approximately cleans 1/3rd of your tooth surface, where the normal toothbrush can’t reach.
More sugar results in tooth decay
Eating a high amount of sugar can increase the risk of tooth decay. It feeds the plaque on the teeth to grow, producing acid which causes tooth decay. We are not just talking about chocolates, having too much-sweetened fruit juice can also be as damaging as soft drinks and chocolate milk.
In order to balance the amount of saliva in the mouth, we suggest eating chewing gum which can neutralise and washes away the acids left on the teeth from eating. Yes, Chewing sugared gum will leave its own acids behind, choosing a sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after eating can prevent acidity damage.
Leave bleeding gums without brushing or flossing
Gum bleeding is due to inflammation. It happens when bacteria and plaque get stuck in between our teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach properly. As a result, the bacteria build and causes gums to become inflamed. Bleeding gums are a sign of gingivitis. “You should not brush while your gums are bleeding” is a common dental myth that most believed. Early treatment helps to prevent bleeding gums from other problems. However, you should still keep brushing the teeth.
White teeth represent healthy teeth
Although you might love the look of white teeth, the statement “white teeth are the sign of healthy teeth”- cannot be true always. Naturally, teeth are white. But there are many things that cause our teeth to get darker or become yellow such as smoking, medication, stains from foods and drinks or process of ageing. Using whitening toothpaste can lead to gum recession. Although you have white teeth, still you may have cavities, infections and other oral health problems.
Braces are for kids and teenagers
If your teeth are crooked or poorly spaced you should get them fixed irrespective of age. Badly aligned teeth build-ups of plaque and bacteria that affect your overall oral health. Consequently, the shape of your teeth also affects the way you talk, eat, smile. But all of these can be improved with braces. However, its common for children and teens to receive orthodontic treatment.
Though if you are worried about adult braces as it is the major common dental myth. There are several modern alignment methods and the fast treatments which can be completed in six months.
If nothing is bothering your oral health, you don’t need to visit the dental hospital
This is one of the biggest common dental myth. With a lot of small dental issues, you don’t necessarily feel pain right away. But awareness about cavities and gum disease is necessary which you don’t always feel it. Because once the symptoms appear, it results in a bigger issue. Waiting until a cavity getting hurts could end up you with a need of root canal or extraction which could have been prevented with regular dental check-ups. The concept of visiting dental hospitals is to notice things early without becoming an issue. As a result, protect the teeth from happening worse.
Having basic and perfect knowledge of oral health can make you take care of your teeth. We learnt to brush and floss from our home. But most of our dental knowledge comes from friends, family, and internet articles. Having awareness about common dental myths is important. However, if you are not sure about something, consult your dentist.
This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist at dental hospital qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.