Myth or Truth? Dental Myths Exposed!
As with everything, there is myth and truth. Dentistry is no exception. Let us help you navigate through dental myths to ensure that your oral health stays in tip top shape!
Studies show I don’t need to floss
This statement is not exactly true, there is actually a lack of studies that prove the benefits of flossing. This doesn’t mean the benefits aren’t there! The government and American Dental Association (ADA) are very quick to defending flossing and promote daily flossing. Your dentist would also agree to continue with your daily flossing routine. They can see right away if a patient does or doesn’t floss regularly. Not flossing can lead to cavities between the teeth.
Teeth whitening will weaken my teeth’s enamel
While is is extremely important to care for your teeth’s enamel since you can’t make more enamel, it is a myth that bleaching your teeth weakens your enamel. However, teeth whitening can cause sensitivity for a brief time after treatment, it does not affect the enamel.
Everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed
Nope, not everyone! Some people have the needed space in their mouth for their third molars. If your wisdom teeth aren’t impacted, at high risk of causing infection, or going to cause crowding/misalignment of your other teeth you can keep your wisdom teeth. That is if you are willing to put up with the discomfort of them breaking through between the ages of 17-25. It is best to have X-Rays taken and discuss with your dentist which route is best for you and your oral health.
You have to replace your toothbrush every time you get sick
Generally speaking, you can’t get the same illness twice since your immune system creates antibodies to fight off the sickness. However you should be replacing your toothbrush every three months away. One thing to pay close attention to is how and where you store your toothbrush. Make sure it is a safe distance away for your toilet if kept in the bathroom.
Kids don’t need to see a dentist until their adult teeth come in
Just because your child’s baby teeth are going to fall out doesn’t mean they don’t need to be taken care of. Neglecting the health of the baby teeth can cause them to fall out too early. If they fall out too early the adult teeth may not come in properly causing more issues down the road. Make sure to brush your children’s teeth as soon as they emerge and go in for regular exams to check for cavities.
Avoid the dentist completely during pregnancy
The hormone changes that occur during pregnancy can affect your oral health so you definitely don’t want to skip your regular dental appointments. You will want to avoid getting X-rays but continue with your cleanings and exams bi-annually. Another old wives tale you may have heard is that it is normal to lose a tooth during pregnancy, this is another myth! If you lose a tooth during pregnancy it is due to another dental issue and you should been seen by your dentist right way.
If you are curious if something you heard is a dental myth or the truth, contact the knowledge doctors and staff at Stubbs Dental today.
