A beautiful smile and healthy teeth don’t just happen by luck, they come from regular visits to the dentist and proper dental care at home. Unfortunately, there are so many dental myths out there that it can be hard to know what’s true and what’s just a myth. That’s why we’re here to set the record straight once and for all. Dr. Mingus is here to debunk some of the most common dental myths and help make sure you get the right information to keep you and your teeth smiling.
Myth #1: You only need to visit the dentist once a year.
Failing to visit the dentist regularly can lead to cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. Contrary to popular belief, you really should visit the dentist every six months. Regular visits for cleanings and check-ups are the best way to prevent most dental problems, so make sure you are keeping up with your appointments.
Myth #2: Brushing harder is the key to clean teeth.
Brushing too hard can actually damage your teeth and gums, leading to increased sensitivity and even recession of the gum line. You should always use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be sure to brush your teeth gently and frequently to keep them clean. If you have trouble removing plaque and food particles, you can try using a fluoride toothpaste and flossing regularly as well.
Myth #3: You don’t have to floss if you use a water pick.
Water picks can be a great addition to your daily routine, but they should not replace floss. Flossing remains one of the best ways to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gum line. Be sure to floss at least once a day, and if you are having trouble with the floss, try using flossing picks or a water pick to make it easier.
Myth #4: You should avoid the dentist when pregnant.
Contrary to popular belief, it is important to continue to see your dentist during your pregnancy. The increased hormones can lead to an increased risk of gum disease and other oral health problems. In fact, studies have shown that untreated gum disease can increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight. Be sure to let your dentist know if you are pregnant so that they can take appropriate steps to keep your smile healthy.
Myth #5: You don’t need to worry about oral health if you’re getting older.
The fact is, oral health problems are not just for kids! An increase in age can lead to an increase in dental issues. Even as we age, it is still important to visit the dentist regularly and practice good oral hygiene. Extra care should be taken to monitor for signs of gum disease and other oral health problems.
Myth #6: Your dentist can tell if you’ve been eating junk food.
While it’s likely that your dentist can tell if you haven’t been taking good care of your teeth, they can’t actually tell what you’ve been eating. It’s true that too much sugar can lead to tooth decay, but it’s actually the amount of time that the sugar is in your mouth that makes a difference. Be sure to brush regularly to remove food particles and keep your teeth healthy.
The bottom line:
Dental myths are all around us, and it can be hard to distinguish between what’s true and what’s not. The most important thing is to visit the dentist regularly, practice good oral hygiene, and get the right information to keep your teeth and smile healthy. If there’s anything you’re not sure about, be sure to talk to your dentist about it. With the right information and regular care, you can keep your teeth and smile looking great!