6 Dental Myths That Should Be Addressed Asap

By Author: Monica Quinn
Total Articles: 88
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Dental health is a crucial component of overall health, and many people believe in various myths about dentistry. When it comes to determining the truth regarding a healthy smile, both fact and fiction can be difficult to distinguish. In this article, we will debunk six common dental myths and provide the truth about maintaining your teeth and gums in good condition.

1. Sugar causes cavities
Sugar does increase the risk of cavities, but it is not the source of the problem. Rather, the bacteria consume the sugar. Sticky foods, such as carbohydrates, feed bacteria, which grow on and around teeth. These bacteria create an acid that causes tooth decay. Rinse and/or clean your teeth after each meal to prevent acid and plaque accumulation.

2. If you brush your teeth regularly, you may avoid flossing
Many people neglect flossing because they believe brushing is enough to maintain good oral hygiene. However, this couldn't be farther from the truth. Brushing and flossing serve various purposes in your oral care practice. Toothbrushes frequently ...
... fail to clean the difficult-to-reach areas of the mouth, like the space between the teeth. Flossing, on the other hand, can help you get rid of food particles and debris that can promote the growth of bacteria and eventually lead to cavities or tooth decay.

3. Teeth whitening destroys enamel
Teeth whitening gels and treatments contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which act as oxidizing agents to remove surface stains. Professional teeth whitening performed by a dentist is the safest and most effective approach to remove and "bleach" discoloration and stains from teeth. Over-the-counter procedures with the American Dental Association seal are similarly safe when used as suggested. The key is to follow the instructions and avoid overusing the products or leaving them on the teeth for longer than recommended.

4. Baby teeth aren't important as they fall out
This mindset can lead to carelessness in caring for a child's main teeth, potentially resulting in a variety of short- and long-term dental problems. Baby teeth have various important roles in a child's development. They are necessary for effective chewing and eating, which promotes excellent nutrition.

Additionally, baby teeth act as placeholders for permanent teeth, guiding them into the proper position when they erupt. Early tooth loss in childhood brought on by decay or neglect can cause problems with alignment that eventually call for orthodontic treatment. Baby teeth are also vital for the development of good speech and a child's general health.

5. Chewing gum is as effective as brushing your teeth
Are you running out of time and believe that chewing gum on the move is an excellent substitute for cleaning your teeth? Unfortunately, this is not the case, but that doesn't mean chewing gum isn't beneficial. While eating sugar-free gum is not a substitute for cleaning your teeth, it does stimulate the production of salvia, which aids in the removal of acid and sugar buildup from the teeth.

6. Bad breath is solely caused by failing to brush your teeth daily
The majority of cases of halitosis, or unpleasant breath, are caused by poor dental hygiene. The problem is not only not cleaning your teeth. You must make dental and oral hygiene a priority. In addition to brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss your teeth, rinse with antiseptic mouthwash, and see your dentist on a regular basis.

Some foods and drinks with strong flavors, such as onions, garlic, and curries, might induce temporary foul breath, so consume them in moderation. After eating, rinse your mouth with antiseptic mouthwash or consume some breath mints.

Greetings, my name is Monica. I graduated from New York Medical College and work as a nurse in Queens Hospital at the moment. The thing I love the most is morning jogging, because it is a wonderful way to keep myself in tonus. I like to communicate with people who care about their health. I became a vegetarian five years ago. Now my daily menu consists mainly of vegetables, fruits and different cheeses. I am a member of water polo team and I love gardening. I like to see how huge flowers grow out of the tiny petal, it dazzles me because I love spending my time outdoors. My goal is to visit all the USA parks, and then all over the world)