5 Dental Misconceptions – and the Truth About Your Teeth
Are you due to see your dentist?
So many of us put it off, even though the recommendations are that most of us go to the dentist for a general checkup once every six months. This practice should start by age two and continue throughout life into old age (in fact, dental care for the elderly is of particular importance).
Only your dentist has the right expertise, the right viewpoint, and the right dental supplies to properly examine your teeth and screen your oral health.
5 Dental Misconceptions
Probably because we have so much ambivalence (and even fear) about going to the dentist, there are a lot of misconceptions about dental health and well-being. So let’s take a look at some of the most common of these – and the actual truth!
- White Teeth are Healthy Teeth – False
Whiter teeth are sought-after and widely considered to be cleaner, healthier, and more attractive. One’s natural tooth colour is influenced by different factors from genetics to diet. Bright white teeth aren’t guaranteed to be free of decay and other issues such as sensitivity, infection, or gum disease.
- Brush Harder for Cleaner Teeth – False
No!!! Using a brush with hard bristles, brushing too hard, or overbrushing won’t make your teeth cleaner – but it might damage them through enamel damage and loss, tooth sensitivity, and especially injury to the gums (and brushing the gums should be part of brushing your teeth). You should use a toothbrush with soft bristles and thoroughly but gently brush the teeth for 2 minutes morning and night before bed. You should also be flossing gently every day.
- Tooth Decay Only Comes From Sugar – False
Processed sugar certainly can cause tooth decay. This is because the breakdown process of sugar feeds the bacteria that cause dental plaque. This enhances the acids in the mouth, which in turn can damage the tooth enamel, which is the protective layer of each tooth. Other foods can do this too, including starchy foods like potatoes and white rice. This is why you need to brush your teeth regularly.
- Bleeding Gums Are No Big Deal – False
Bleeding gums might be common, but they’re not normal. Even if your gums only bleed a tiny bit after brushing or flossing, it’s a sign they are inflamed. Inflamed gums are often caused by gum disease or an infection. Other issues like the buildup of plaque can be a cause as well. Regular gum bleeding (even mild) needs to be seen by your dentist.
- Water With Fluoride is Bad For You – False
Australian tap water supplies have had fluoride added to them for more than 50 years. This has dramatically diminished the rates of tooth decay and, while our grandparents almost all had mouths full of fillings from a young age, overall our dental health is much, much better today. There is controversy amongst some groups about the wider health implications of consuming fluoride in this way, but medical scientists have confirmed that Australia’s strictly regulated levels of water supply fluoridation are both safe and dentally beneficial.
There you have it! Some common misconceptions about your teeth and dental health set right. And don’t forget to book your next dental appointment – your teeth with thank you!
