At Somerset Dental, we understand that a trip to the dentist can be scary. That’s why our first priority is your comfort. However, this fear of oral care has led to many myths being spread regarding your dental care! That’s why we’ve collated these ten common dental myths and busted them for you, to put your mind at ease and make that trip to the dentist a little easier.
1. Fluoride Carries Health Risks
False! Since water fluoridation became commonplace, many have asserted that fluoride is a health hazard. However, almost all studies have shown that fluoride has significantly positive effects on your oral health while no study has conclusively found fluoride to carry health risks. You can find fluoride in most of your oral care products and in the water you drink as a natural ingredient.
2. Teeth Whitening Weakens the Teeth
If your teeth whitening is done according to the product instructions – at home or by your dentist – then you’ll experience no weakening of your teeth’s structure at all. Overuse of these products may cause some brief teeth sensitivity or irritation but this still is not a sign of weakened teeth.
3. Brushing With Bleeding Gums Is Bad
If your gums are bleeding, that’s a sign of plaque or food accumulating on the gum line, to which the solution is to brush to remove all that gunk! This will help lessen the irritation and inflammation on your gums. Dentists recommend you brush at a 45° with the bristles pointing towards your gums as the best method of removing this build up.
4. Brush Hard, Brush Long
This one’s often well-meaning, but you can actually be damaging your teeth if you brush too hard and for too long. Your mouth is sensitive, and overzealous brushing can grind down the tooth enamel and damage the gums. Dentists recommend brushing twice daily for two minutes each time.
5. Flossing Isn’t Important
Flossing can be a hassle, but without it you’re missing out on cleaning around a third of your tooth’s surfaces that a regular toothbrush just can’t get to!
6. Tooth Decay Is Inevitable
This is often an excuse to slack off on the oral care, but it’s simply not true. Tooth decay is preventable, and with the right oral care and help from your dentist, you can maintain your teeth for life.
7. Oral Health Doesn’t Affect My Overall Health
Nope! Research has shown that there may be a correlation between your oral health and the state of your heart, meaning that proper dental hygiene is vital to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
8. Mouthwash Can Replace Brushing
Unfortunately, mouthwash can’t replace the mechanical action of brushing and flossing. Mouthwash can help remove that surface layer of bacteria, but it won’t remove that bacteria caught in the biofilm that is formed on your teeth.
9. It’s Too Late for Braces
Thanks to advancements in dentistry and orthodontics, it’s not too late for braces. Products such as Invisalign allow adults to use almost invisible braces and smile with confidence as their teeth are realigned.
10. White Teeth Are Happy Teeth
Whiter teeth may look good, but that’s only cosmetic. Your teeth may still have some oral health issues that need to be addressed for the sake of your overall health. The best way to assess this is to visit your local dentist.
Our team at Somerset Dental can help with your oral health. We’re experts in preventative and restorative dental treatments, and can aid you in ensuring that your oral health doesn’t suffer from the listed myths! Contact Somerset Dental on 4648 0909 and get the advice you need today.
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