Has anyone ever told you that sugar rots your teeth? Or that braces are only for teenagers? These are just a few of the common misconceptions about dental health. Today, we’re turning to Dr. Kelley Mingus, a renowned dentist based in Bend, Oregon, to debunk these dental myths and provide us with accurate information about oral health.
Myth #1: Sugar Rots Your Teeth
One of the oldest and most pervasive dental myths is that sugar directly rots your teeth. While excessive sugar consumption is indeed a contributing factor to tooth decay, it’s not the sugar itself that damages your teeth. It’s actually the harmful bacteria in your mouth that feed on the sugar, producing acids that attack tooth enamel. Excessive consumption of sugar helps these bacteria to thrive, leading to decay, but sugar itself is not the direct culprit.
Myth #2: More Brushing Means Healthier Teeth
Another common dental misconception is that incessant brushing leads to healthier teeth. However, too much of a good thing can be harmful. Over-brushing, especially with a hard-bristle toothbrush, can damage tooth enamel and worsen gum recession—both of which can lead to sensitive teeth. According to Dr. Kelley Mingus, brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled brush is usually sufficient for maintaining oral health.
Myth #3: Gums Bleed Because You’re Brushing Too Hard
The reality is not as straightforward. While aggressive brushing can indeed contribute to gum bleeding, persistent gum bleeding is often indicative of gum disease, which is caused by bacterial infection. If your gums persistently bleed during brushing, it is recommended to schedule a visit to a dental professional like Dr. Mingus promptly.
Myth #4: Mouthwash is a Good Substitute for Brushing
Mouthwash is a great addition to your oral health routine and it can indeed freshen your breath and reduce oral bacteria. However, it should never be used as a substitute for brushing and flossing. It cannot physically remove food debris, plaque, and tartar like brushing and flossing do. As Dr. Kelley Mingus explains, using mouthwash should supplement rather than replace good brushing and flossing habits.
Myth #5: Bad Breath Means Poor Hygiene
Although bad breath can often be a sign of poor oral hygiene, it can also be caused by other factors, such as food, smoking, medication, dry mouth, or certain medical conditions. Staying hydrated, maintaining good oral hygiene, and routine professional cleanings at dental providers like the office of Dr. Mingus are key to preventing and managing bad breath.
Myth #6: Dentures are Equivalent to Natural Teeth
No dental restoration method, including dentures, can truly replicate the sensation and performance of natural teeth. Although modern dentures can vastly improve the quality of life for those missing many or all of their teeth, they still require regular adjustments and replacements. Plus, dentures do not prevent bone loss in the jaw, which happens when you lose your natural teeth. That being said, options such as dental implants offered by professionals like Dr. Kelley Mingus can provide a more natural, lasting solution.
Myth #7: Braces are Just for Teenagers
This couldn’t be further from the truth.
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