Debunking Common Myths on Oral Health

Oral health is a high priority for your overall health and well-being, but there are several myths and many misconceptions on how to keep your teeth and gums healthy. In this blog, we will discuss and debunk some of the most common myths about your oral health so you can make the best decisions to prioritize your dental care properly.

Myth #1: Majority of tooth decay comes from sugar

Although it is true that any sugary drinks and food can be a cause of tooth decay, this won’t be the main or only cause. Let's talk about how tooth decay occurs. This is caused when bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars. This then produces acid that can erode the enamel in your teeth. This can be caused not only by ingesting sugar but because you have poor oral hygience, inadequate fluoride exposure, and frequent snacks. This can put you at risk for those unwanted cavities. It is important to practice great oral hygiene by making sure you are limiting your sugar intake and also brushing your teeth regularly all while still seeing your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings.

Myth #2: You should only go to the dentist if you are having pain

There are many people who believe that it is only necessary to visit the dentist when they experience oral pain or issues. Yes, it is necessary for you to go visit the dentist if you are having any pain or issues, but this can be prevented if you have regular check-ups and cleanings. This is crucial for detecting any problem areas and preventing them from getting worse. By going to a regular check-up, your dentist can identify any gum issues or tooth decay. They can also figure out any health issues, such as oral cancer or a decline in your oral health. Routine cleanings can also help remove any plaque buildup you have and reduce the risk of you getting any cavities.

Myth #3: Brushing harder will clean your teeth better

There are thoughts that if you have a firm brush and brush harder, you will get your teeth cleaner. However, if you brush too hard, this can actually cause damage to your teeth and irritate your gums. This can lead to gum issues and also teeth sensitivity. The American Dental Association recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush and that you should utilize a gentle technique to clean your pearly whites. This will effectively clean your teeth while not causing any harm. Remember to always brush for two minutes morning and night and floss daily. These daily routines will help remove plaque and food particles from your teeth and gumline.

Myth #4: You don’t need to floss if you brush your teeth thoroughly

Flossing is something that many people will not do in their oral hygiene routine What they don’t know is that flossing is a very essential part of your oral care. This will help alongside your toothbrush to remove any plaque or debris that your toothbrush can’t reach. If you skip flossing, you can leave unwanted bacteria in your mouth and this can lead to cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. You need to always make flossing a priority and a daily habit.

Myth #5: Baby teeth are not important to keep healthy because they will fall out anyway.

While it is true that baby teeth will eventually fall out to make room for permanent teeth to come in, they also play a vital role in your child’s oral health and development. Baby teeth will help your child chew food properly, help with speech, and maintain space for permanent teeth to erupt correctly. Additionally, premature loss of baby teeth can cause misalignment problems and other oral issues. It is essential to care for your child’s baby teeth and start early to teach them good oral hygiene and healthy habits.

By debunking these common myths about your oral routine, we hope to help you make informed decisions and learn how to prioritize your oral health properly. Remember to always brush and floss daily and try to limit your sugar intake. Keep up with your routine delta visits to keep those teeth and gums healthy for a lifetime.