Ever since influencers started providing health information, including dental care, on social media platforms, there has been a growing level of confusion amongst people. Since the information is not verified, it’s hard to differentiate between myths and facts.
Let us see the 10 most common myths about oral health that people believe.
Harder Brushing Means Better Cleaning
Many of us have even adapted this myth in our lives. Hard brushing does more harm to your teeth and gums than normal or moderate brushing. It affects the tooth enamel and gum tissues. It can even lead to many other dental problems like gum recession.
For best results, you must brush your teeth gently for two minutes, two times a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Sugar is the Reason for Cavities
One of the most common dental care myths is that sugar is the reason for cavities. Although sugar contributes to the formation of cavities, it is not specifically sugar that causes the problem. It is the bacteria that feed on sugar.
Notably, sticky foods attract bacteria to breed and damage the teeth. Such bacteria produce an acidic compound that increases the chances of tooth decay. As a result, cavities start to grow. The simplest solution is to brush your teeth or rinse your mouth properly after meals. This will help in reducing acid and buildup of plaque.
Flossing is Not that Important
Flossing plays an important role in maintaining good oral health. Flossing enables you to reach out and clean hard-to-reach areas of your mouth, like the tiny gaps in between teeth. It helps in removing the food portions and any debris that cause oral health problems such as tooth decay and cavities. It helps to remove around 80% of plaque, the leading cause of various oral issues.
Choosing Teeth Whitening can Damage Teeth Enamel
Teeth begin white, but with time, they get stained due to eating habits, smoking, and beverages like tea, coffee, and cola. To get the whiteness back, people tend to follow various non-professional whitening solutions promoted online, which can cause damage to both the teeth and gums.
You should always consult your dentist for professional teeth whitening and get the process done. It is a safe and effective process and doesn’t cause any harm to your teeth’ enamel.
Chewing Gum is Equivalent to Brushing Your Teeth
Many TV commercials often promote chewing gum as good for your teeth. And so, many people think that by chewing gum, they do not need to brush their teeth. They use chewing gum as a brushing substitute. However, that’s not the case. Nothing can substitute brushing. Meanwhile, there are sugar-free chewing gums available that increase the saliva production in your mouth, which helps wash away any sugar build-up and acid in the mouth.
Gum Diseases Just Affects Your Mouth
Whilst it may sound strange, gum diseases can not just affect your oral health but also affect the parts of your body. Yes, the mouth is your gateway to the body, and so any problem in the mouth related to teeth or gum can spread to other body organs if not addressed on time. In some cases, unaddressed gum problems can even increase the chances of heart attack or other cardiovascular issues and even cancer.
Diet Drinks are a Healthy Choice for Your Teeth
Even though the diet version of your favorite soft drink may seem to be a healthy option, such beverages are generally highly acidic. This means that they can harm the protective layer of enamel on your teeth’ surface. On the safer side, you can choose to drink your favourite diet soda with a straw to minimize the percentage of damage to your teeth.
Go for a Check-Up Only When You Have any Dental Problem
If you are amongst those who avoid going for dental check-ups because you have no problem, then you need to change this habit. Dental check-ups are meant to assess your overall oral health to help identify and address any potential dental issues before they lead to pain, discomfort, or any other complication.
Fruit Juices are Good for Your Oral Health
Almost everyone loves fruit juices as they are natural. But that does not guarantee that they are also good for your oral health. Yes, many packaged fruit juices have high amounts of sugar, both the natural sugar as well as the added sugar, which increases the risk of tooth decay and cavities. To address your juice cravings, you can use a paper straw to drink your juice and minimise the harm to your teeth.
Cola Consumption can Dissolve a Tooth Overnight
Amongst many, you must have heard the myth that leaving a tooth drowned in a glass of cola overnight can dissolve it. In reality, this is not the fact. However, it’s true that soft drinks like coke contain high amounts of acid and sugar, which can lead to cavities, erosion, and tooth decay. However, it may not happen overnight. But still, it is best to avoid such tooth-damaging beverages, or drink them in moderation, to minimise your chance of developing any oral health problems.
These are some of the most common dental myths that you should be aware of by knowing the facts. Make sure to brush your teeth properly before going to bed, after waking up, and, if possible, after meals. Also, include flossing in your routine to avoid plaque buildup in your mouth. Alternatively, you should eat a well-balanced diet packed with vegetables and fruits. And most importantly, schedule your visit to the dentist every three to six months.
Why not book yourself a check-up with Perfect Smile – one of the UK’s leading dental groups with a highly experienced team of dentists. Established in 2004, Perfect Smile has treated more than 4 million patients across the UK since its inception.