Parents always have their children’s best interest at heart and want to ensure they are growing up healthy and strong. This includes taking care of their oral health. However, there are some common myths floating around about dental health that parents may believe. In this post, we’ll dispel five of these myths and give you the truth about each one. Keep reading to learn more!
Myth 1: Tooth Decay is only Caused by Sugar
It’s no surprise that sugary snacks are often fingered as the main culprit when it comes to tooth decay. After all, sugar is sticky and sweet, making it the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. However, it’s not the only thing that can cause decay.
Carbohydrates like chips, crackers, and other starchy foods can also be a factor.
These foods release acids as they’re broken down in the mouth, which can contribute to plaque buildup. Add in a little neglect when it comes to brushing and flossing, and you’ve got a recipe for tooth decay. So next time you reach for a snack, remember that sugary treats aren’t the only things that can damage your teeth.
Myth 2: Brushing Harder=Cleaner Teeth
Whenever you step into a dentist’s office, they always tell you to brush your teeth gently. And it turns out they’re right.
Brushing your teeth too hard can actually damage your enamel.
Enamel is the protective layer on the surface of your teeth, and it’s what helps to prevent cavities and infections.
When you brush too hard, you can scrape away that enamel, exposing the sensitive roots of your teeth.
Myth 3: Flossing is not Necessary
Flossing is often seen as a tedious and time-consuming task, but it is actually essential for maintaining good oral health.
Plaque and bacteria can build up on teeth and gums, leading to cavities, gum disease, and other problems.
Flossing removes these harmful substances from your mouth, helping to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Only 40% of Americans floss daily, but those who do are less likely to experience oral health problems. If you’re not already in the habit of flossing, make it a priority.
Myth 4: Chewing Gum is a replacement for brushing
There’s a lot of gum out there claiming to be healthy for your teeth, but unfortunately, most of it is just blowing smoke. The truth is, chewing gum can actually be bad for your teeth, especially if it contains sugar.
While chewing gum may help to remove some food particles from your teeth, it’s not even close to being as effective as brushing.
Plus, the sugar in gum can actually contribute to tooth decay. If you want to chew gum, opt for a sugar-free variety. And remember, it’s no substitute for brushing your teeth twice a day.
Myth 5: If you have no oral concerns there is no need for an exam
Many people believe that they only need to see a dentist if they are experiencing problems with their teeth or gums. However, this is not the case.
Regular oral checkups are important, even if you don’t have any concerns.
By having regular exams, your dentist can spot any potential problems before they start to cause damage. Problems that go undetected or untreated for a long time can be much harder to treat. So, even if your teeth and gums seem healthy, it’s important to see your dentist for routine checkups. Doing so could save you a lot of time, money, and pain in the long run.
Triangle Dentistry, located in Raleigh, NC, provides a state-of-the-art facility that offers exceptional general dental and specialty services guided by empathy of a patient’s needs and desires. Services range from dental crowns to veneers and whitening procedures. For further information, questions, or to schedule an appointment, contact the office at (919) 847-6000