Today, there is a wealth of advice available online regarding proper oral care. However, much of it is false or misleading. Unfortunately, several myths and misconceptions cause individuals to make bad decisions when it comes to their dental care. Please continue reading to learn as we debunk the most common dental myths and schedule an appointment with our trusted general dentistry/dentists located in Basking Ridge & Morristown, NJ who can help you maintain a healthy smile.
What Are the Most Common Dental Myths?
As mentioned above, there are various misconceptions and myths surrounding oral care. It’s important to know these myths to avoid making bad decisions about your oral hygiene practices. The following are some of the most common myths:
- Dental health is separate from your general health: Contrary to popular belief, oral health is directly linked to your general health. Many believe that poor dental hygiene only affects your oral health, but this is not necessarily the case. For instance, poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, which can contribute to more serious health problems. Gum disease has been connected to diabetes, heart disease, and pneumonia. Oral infections can also spread and cause serious health conditions. Ultimately, the health of your teeth can significantly affect your overall well-being.
- Sugar causes cavities: Most people believe that if they avoid sugar, they can evade cavities. However, even if you completely cut out sugar from your diet, but don’t practice good oral hygiene habits, like brushing or flossing your teeth, cavities can still form.
- “If my teeth don’t hurt, they are healthy:” Some people think just because they don’t experience any pain or discomfort that means their teeth must be healthy. However, certain issues such as tooth decay aren’t immediately apparent. You may be suffering from early-stage tooth decay without even realizing it. Therefore, regular dental check-ups are crucial to prevent potential problems from developing into advanced stages.
- Bleeding gums are normal: If your gums are bleeding while brushing or flossing, you may shrug it off. However, gums can become inflamed due to excessive plaque build-up, gingivitis, etc. It’s not normal for your gums to bleed. If your gums are bleeding, you should contact your dentist for an exam so they can identify and treat the problem.
- Brushing harder cleans better: The harder you brush your teeth, the more trauma the tooth enamel and gum tissue suffer, which can lead to gum recession. Essentially, brushing harder is counterproductive. You should brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
At Dental Associates of Basking Ridge, we are prepared to provide you with the knowledge needed for a healthier brighter smile. Connect with our dedicated team today to learn more.
