Common Dental Health Myths
September 2, 2024
At Dentique Dentistry, we believe in empowering our patients with accurate information and compassionate care. With so much misinformation circulating about dental health, it's essential to separate fact from fiction to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. In this blog post, we’ll debunk some common dental myths and provide you with the facts you need to make informed decisions about your oral health.
Brushing harder can actually harm your teeth and gums. Aggressive brushing can wear away enamel and cause gum recession. Instead, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions to effectively remove plaque without damaging your oral tissues. Brush for at least two minutes, twice a day, and remember to brush the gum edges where the teeth enter the gum.
Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining oral health and preventing issues before they become serious. Many dental problems, such as cavities and gum disease, can develop without noticeable symptoms and are painless in the early stages.Routine visits allow your dentist to catch and treat these issues early, ensuring better long-term health. Remember the old adage – Prevention is better than cure.
While sugar plays a significant role in cavity formation, it's not the only culprit. Cavities are caused by acids produced by bacteria in your mouth, which can also be fuelled by carbohydrates, starches, and even certain fruits. Many common foods contain sugar which many people are unaware of. Maintaining good oral hygiene, reducing sugar intake, and attending regular dental check-ups are key in preventing cavities.
Baby teeth are essential for your child’s oral health and development. They help with proper chewing and speaking, and maintain space for permanent teeth. Neglecting baby teeth can lead to pain, infection, and alignment issues with permanent teeth. Ensure your child practices good oral hygiene and visits the dentist regularly.
Bleeding gums are often a sign of inflammation or gum disease, which is caused by plaque buildup. Rather than avoiding brushing, you should maintain gentle brushing and flossing to remove plaque, reduce inflammation, and improve gum health. If bleeding persists, schedule a visit with your dentist for a professional evaluation and treatment. Sometimes, bleeding gums can be a sign of serious systemic diseases, so any bleeding should be checked and not ignored.
Whitening toothpaste can help remove surface stains, but it cannot change the natural colour of your teeth or provide the dramatic results of professional whitening treatments. Furthermore, tooth whitening can only be prescribed by Dental Care Professionals who are properly registered with the General Dental Council. Beauty salons and hairdressers are not qualified to do this, and those who do are practicing illegally. Don’t risk your health; for significant whitening, consider professionally prescribed treatments from you dentist.
Your oral health is closely linked to your overall health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, which has been associated with conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and respiratory problems. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental care are essential for your overall well-being.
While sugar-free gum can help stimulate saliva production and reduce plaque acids, it is not a substitute for brushing and flossing. Brushing and flossing are necessary to remove plaque, food particles, and bacteria that chewing gum alone cannot eliminate.
Mouthwashes can have a place in oral health care but are not to be relied on instead of brushing. The single most important thing for oral health is effective brushing of all tooth surfaces. Scientific studies show that electric toothbrushes are more effective than a manual brush; and interdental brushes are more effective at cleaning in-between the teeth than floss. Water flossers can also be very useful in many cases. For the most effective way to maintain your oral health, follow the advice of yourDental Hygienist.
Advances in dental technology and techniques have made most dental treatments more comfortable and less invasive. At Dentique Dentistry, we prioritise patient comfort and use the latest methods, as well as our years of experience and expertise, to ensure your care with us is as comfortable and pain-free as possible.
Understanding the truth behind these common dental myths is essential for maintaining a healthy, confident smile. At Dentique Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing you with accurate information and compassionate care to support your oral health journey. If you have any questions or concerns about your dental health, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.