Going to the dentist often has a bad reputation; whether you had a negative experience when you were young or you have dental phobia and anxiety, many people do their best to avoid dental visits altogether. Unfortunately, part of this avoidance revolves around common dental myths and misconceptions. The truth is that you need to make regular visits to your dentist to maintain healthy teeth and gums and optimal overall health.
So, what are the most common dental myths, and what are the facts you need to know? Keep reading to learn more.
Exposing Common Dental Myths
Because we want your teeth and gums to be as healthy as possible, dispelling certain dental myths that might keep you from visiting your Mesquite dentist is essential. Some of the most common dental myths are as follows:
1. Sugar Is the Sole Cause of Cavities
Many people believe that sugar is the only thing that can cause tooth decay. However, the truth is that sugar isn't the problem; it's the bacteria that eat the sugar. When you eat sticky, starchy foods, the bacteria in your mouth are attracted to them. Bacteria produce acid, which damages your tooth enamel and causes cavities.
One way to reduce this acid and plaque buildup is to rinse your mouth or brush your teeth after eating.
2. Flossing Isn't as Important as Brushing
It's essential to floss your teeth every day, but many people either rarely floss or don't floss at all because they believe it isn't as important as brushing. Flossing can remove most of the plaque on your teeth, so a daily flossing routine can help you avoid tooth decay and gum disease.
Consider keeping floss in different locations to make it easier to establish a routine. Having floss or floss picks in your purse, in your car, at your desk at work, and by your chair where you sit in the evening can remind you to complete this vital task.
3. No Pain Means No Need to Visit the Dentist
One of the most common dental myths is that you don't need to go to the dentist unless you're experiencing pain or some other dental issue. If you are looking to avoid the dentist because of dental anxiety or past experience, this myth is especially dangerous to your oral health.
When you wait until you're in pain, you could be at risk of losing your natural teeth to infection, tooth decay, or gum disease. Not only that, but your dental treatment is likely to be much more expensive than the recommended routine dental checkups every six months.
4. Dental Issues Don't Affect the Rest of Your Body
One of the most dangerous dental myths is that dental issues don't affect the rest of your body; this simply isn't true. Your mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body, so if your oral hygiene is poor, it can harm your body. This is called the oral-systemic connection.
If your mouth is full of bacteria, those bacteria can then enter your bloodstream. This can cause a wide range of severe health issues, including cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, diabetes, and pregnancy complications.
5. Teeth Whitening Can Damage Your Teeth
You may have heard that teeth whitening can damage your tooth enamel. Truthfully, many over-the-counter teeth whitening options can damage your teeth and gums, but professional teeth whitening under your dentist's supervision is a safe, effective way to whiten and brighten your smile.
At Fresh 32 Family Dentistry, we use customized whitening trays that fit snugly over your teeth to keep the whitening agents from harming your gums. We also closely monitor your teeth whitening to prevent any damage to your teeth.
6. Dental X-Rays Are Dangerous
You're not alone if you've heard that dental x-rays are dangerous. The truth is that dental x-rays expose you to a minimal amount of radiation, and their benefits greatly outweigh the risks. X-rays are an essential diagnostic tool that can help your dentist see any changes in your oral health.
Your Mesquite, TX, dentist uses dental x-rays to diagnose gum disease, tooth decay, and even tumors.
7. Brushing Harder Will Clean Your Teeth More
Some people believe that the harder they brush, the cleaner their teeth will be. Although brushing your teeth thoroughly is essential, brushing them too hard can damage your tooth enamel and make your gums bleed.
Remember to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid applying too much pressure when you brush your teeth in the morning and evening. Also, you should visit your dentist every six months for a routine exam and cleaning.
Questions about Oral Health Myths in Mesquite, TX?
If you want to learn more about dental myths and how they can affect your oral and overall health, the expert dental team at Fresh 32 Family Dentistry is ready to take your call! Our top priority is helping you and your family maintain the best oral health possible. You can reach our dental office at (469) 730-0090 to schedule a consultation or appointment.