Debunking Common Dentistry Myths: Know The Simple Truth!

Many false beliefs surround dental health, influencing how individuals care for their teeth. Let’s debunk common dentistry myths and give you the facts to help you better care for your teeth, gums, and oral health.

Myths

Myth: Sugar Causes Cavities 

Many falsely believe that sugar is a direct cause of cavities. Hence, many opt for ‘sugar-free’ products. And though diet sodas and other sugarless products can be healthy, they won’t help with your teeth!

After all, sugar is NOT the primary cause of cavities. But it does contribute to them. Each time you consume sugar, oral bacteria will begin producing acid in your mouth. 

This damages your tooth’s enamel, the outer protective layer of our teeth, eventually causing cavities.

Myth: It’s Okay to Neglect Baby Teeth

Children have their baby teeth until a certain age, often 12 or 13. Although true, it doesn’t mean parents should ignore dental care until their kids’ permanent teeth come! After all, untreated cavities in baby teeth can lead to tooth loss, gaps, gum disease, etc.

Aside from that, infected baby teeth caused by untreated cavities can cause discoloration. And this will affect the erupting permanently, tainting your child’s bright smile. 

Hence, remember to apply early oral hygiene care for your child. You can use a damp, soft cloth to clean their gums and remove bacteria even when they don’t have their baby teeth yet! And once they erupt, you can begin brushing your kid’s teeth twice daily. 

Myth: Flossing Causes Gaps in the Teeth

You’ve likely heard of the rumors surrounding flossing and teeth gaps. Contrarily, forgetting to floss regularly can lead to plaque buildup, contributing to receding gums. And this can cause unattractive gaps between teeth. 

Myth: Not Visiting the Dentist Saves You Money

Many people neglect to visit the dentist and only do so when a tooth begins to hurt! Expect a higher fee if you put off seeing your dentist once everything’s too late. Regular checking-ups and cleaning at the dentist will save you more money. 

After all, not only will the dentist keep your teeth pristine, but they’ll also be able to recognize issues early. Hence, they can prevent them from becoming too problematic ASAP. 

Facts

Fact: Brushing too Much or Hard Can Harm Your Teeth

Although maintaining a regular dental hygiene routine is ideal, going overboard can do the opposite. 

It’s a widespread fallacy that our teeth will become cleaner the harder, or more often, we brush them. After all, overdoing it can damage the enamel protecting your teeth. 

So, avoid brushing too hard and using toothbrushes with stiff bristles. Instead, opt for softer bristles; when done right, brushing twice a day should keep your teeth and gums in the best condition!

Fact: Oral Health Impacts General Health

Although our teeth may seem insignificant compared to the rest of our bodies, note that they will impact your general health. 

After all, bacteria in your mouth can harm you! You can control them by taking care of your teeth and gums well.

If you don’t, the bacteria can cause dental issues, such as infection, tooth decay, or gum disease. For example, gum disease lets bacteria enter your arteries, increasing your risk for stroke as it infects your heart’s inner lining. 

Aside from that, you’re also increasing your risk of developing conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lung infections, and diabetes if you neglect your dental health. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q: Is tooth decay the most common dental problem?

A: Tooth decay is the second most common disease people experience, next to the common cold. And it’s so problematic that over 78% of Americans get at least one cavity by 17 years old. Hence, it’s become the most prevalent childhood disease.

Q: Do dental issues occur a lot?

A: Dental problems stem from a shift in one’s oral environment, often caused by the introduction of easier-to-eat and sugary foods than the ones ancestors ate! And many people today neglect simple oral hygiene and care, causing several dental issues.

Q: Is it a fact that dentists have varying opinions?

A: Dentists have varying levels of training, experience, and commitment. So, it only makes sense to see many of them have different options! Still, you don’t need to worry! After all, most care about their patients and strive to provide the best care possible.

Q: Is it true that a dentist can misdiagnose a cavity?

A: There’s a slim chance for a dentist to under or over-diagnose cavities. I emphasize ‘slim,’ as this rarely happens and depends on several factors. 

Q: What is an unusual fact about teeth?

A: Our teeth are the only part of our bodies that can’t heal or repair themselves. Although coated in a protective layer called ‘enamel,’ it’s not a living tissue. 

Final Thoughts

You may put your dental health at risk if you don’t know how to differentiate between facts and myths. And this may lead to bad practices, causing tooth decay, gum disease, etc. 

Please don’t hesitate to book an appointment with our dentists in Tijuana, Mexico, if you have concerns regarding your dental health. They can help you decipher the facts and myths surrounding dentistry using their knowledge, in-depth expertise, and experience.