Word of mouth and wives’ tales are not always what they seem and can sometimes be dangerous for your health. Dentistry has acquired its share of myths over the years. For all of the great things the internet has brought us, it is not always full of truths. Let’s take a look at some common dental myths.
Myth 1: Amalgam causes mercury to leak into your body.
This is still a highly debated topic, but this has not been proven to be true. The Food and Drug Administration, the World Health Organization, the United States Public Health Service, and the National Institute of Health have all ruled that there is not evidence to support this myth. Recent advances in dental filling materials have largely eliminated the issue. Today composite fillings have replaced amalgam fillings in many dental offices, such as ours.
Myth 2: Frequent brushing can damage my tooth enamel.
It is true that brushing with a hard toothbrush and an abrasive toothpaste can damage enamel and even your gums. All studies indicate that using soft bristled toothbrushes and proper brushing technique will not cause any harm to your teeth and gums. Brush at least twice a day or after every meal for the best care of your teeth. And of course don’t forget to floss!
Myth 3: Chewing sugar-free gum is as effective as brushing.
Some studies indicate that sugar-free gum after meals helps activate saliva production which has natural antibacterial properties. Gum can also help remove debris and freshen your breath. However, gum does not remove plaque and bacteria that can cause tooth decay. This is especially true for the spaces between your gums, where only floss can reach.
Myth 4: I don’t need to go to the dentist, because I don’t have any pain or problems with my teeth.
Regular dental exams are critical for spotting and treating potential problems before they become severe (and expensive). Oral cancer, periodontal disease, and tooth decay may go unnoticed by you until it is too late.
Myth 5: Children don’t need to go to the dentist, their teeth fall out anyways.
Good habits are started early! Instilling proper oral hygiene routines will ensure a lifetime of oral health. Dental visits at a young age can make the experience less traumatic for children. Dental phobias are often started with poor oral health that has gone untreated. Your child’s first visit should not be because their teeth already have cavities and/or pain. Baby teeth that are not adequately cared for often are lost too young leading to bite problems and damage to their permanent teeth.
Myth 6: More sugar leads to more tooth decay.
It is not the amount of sugar, but the time that it has contact with your teeth that matters. Oral bacteria love sticky, slow dissolving candy the most. These bacteria use the sugar and create an acidic by-product that eats away your teeth. If you can’t brush your teeth after a sugary snack, it is best to at least rinse your mouth with water several times.
Myth 7: Only kids get cavities.
There are other culprits that can lead to tooth decay other than poor hygiene and sugary candies. Receding gums can result in decay along the roots of teeth. Some common drugs (antihistamines, antidepressants, diuretics, and sedatives) can also cause a decrease in saliva production which is your body’s natural defense against decay-causing bacteria. Drinking plenty of water can wash away the bacteria.
Adults are also more likely to have chronic health conditions, like diabetes, which can increase your risk of dental problems. Diabetics have twice the risk of developing periodontal disease compared to non-diabetics.
Myth 8: I shouldn’t brush my teeth if my gums are bleeding.
Bleeding gums are often a caused by a poor oral hygiene program. Swollen and inflamed gums are caused by bacterial infections due to plaque build up along the gums. The best cure is regular flossing and brushing. If your gums continue to bleed, make an appointment to see us at Advanced Dentistry.
Myth 9: Placing an aspirin tablet next to a painful tooth will relieve the pain.
Taking pain medications to deal with dental pain only hides the underlying cause of the pain. Aspirin is a corrosive chemical that is a notorious cause of stomach ulcers. Putting aspirin on your gums can lead to chemical burns on your gums which cause more pain than you are already in! If you have a toothache you need to see your dentist to determine the cause of the pain. Untreated infections can lead to serious health problems including hospitalization and death.
Myth 10: Dental procedures must be avoided during pregnancy.
Proper dental care during pregnancy, including regular professional cleanings, is not only safe, but recommended. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause inflammation of the gums. Continued dental care is essential to avoid oral infections such as gum disease, which has been linked to preterm birth.
The safest course of action is to complete dental treatment, such as restoring decayed or broken teeth, before or after pregnancy. However, dental work may be needed to reduce the risk of pain and infection. Routine X-rays can usually be postponed until after the birth; however, if a dental emergency requires X-rays, discuss the best course of action with your dentist.