9 Popular Myths About Oral Hygiene

Proper oral hygiene is imperative when it comes to taking care of your mouth and your entire body, for that matter. There is a TON of information out there about the best way to care for your teeth. Along with that information also comes some myths about oral care. The best dentist in Southern Missouri is here to point out some of these popular myths. Below, Access Dental and Denture has debunked a number of myths for our clients and friends.

MYTH #1- Brushing Bleeding Gums is Bad

Brushing is part of the twice daily routine for proper oral care. The gums and tongue should be brushed along with the teeth. If gums are inflamed, they may bleed when brushing. Help to release the infection that is causing the inflammation, continue to lightly brush your gums if they are bleeding.

MYTH #2- Sugar Damages Teeth

Sugar does play a role in tooth decay, but it is not the root of the problem. Consuming high amounts of sugar can add to the bacteria level in your mouth, which is what causes damage to the teeth.

MYTH #3- Bleaching Teeth is Dangerous

Whitening agents that are currently on the market are not dangerous for use. When bleaching teeth, you are simply oxidizing your tooth surface so light refracts more favorably off of the enamel. Some whitening agent can cause sensitivity issues with a tooth, if used too frequently.

MYTH #4- Flossing is Not Important

Flossing your teeth is actually very important. A person will miss cleaning 40% of their teeth if they fail to floss between the teeth daily. As well as keep the teeth free of damaging particles, flossing can also help prevent gum disease.

MYTH #5- Whiter Teeth Means Healthier Teeth

The exterior of the teeth can appear to be white, while many issues are found inside the teeth. White teeth does not necessarily mean they are healthy.

MYTH #6- Cavities in Baby Teeth are Fine

Many parents are not concerned if their child has a cavity in their baby tooth. First of all, this means proper oral care is not being practiced, which will likely carry over once the child’s permanent teeth grow in. The roots of the baby teeth help guide permanent teeth into place, which can cause damage to them if cavities are not properly addressed.

MYTH # 7- The Harder the Toothbrush, the Better

A harder brush does not necessarily clean better than a soft bristled brush. It is actually recommended to brush with softer bristles for a longer period of time, for optimum cleansing of the teeth and entire mouth.

MYTH #8- Too Old For Braces

Braces are typically used to correct the teeth of a teen or young adult, but there is no age limit when it comes to braces. Bite function and appearance of the teeth can be adjusted at any point in a patient’s life.

MYTH # 9- Gum Disease is Not Very Common

Gum disease is actually a very common issue to affects a number of people. 47% of adults age 30 and older have some form of gum disease. If it goes unaddressed, it can cause lasting decay and damage to your entire mouth.

Now that some of these common myths have been debunked, you are ready to take care of your oral health properly. Be sure to brush your teeth twice a day, once in the morning and again in the evening. Flossing at least once a day is recommended to clean those hard to reach surfaces between the teeth as well. Your teeth is an important part of your digestion system, be sure to take care of them. To set up an appointment, contact your trusted dentist in Springfield, MO.

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile!

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Springfield Office                         Rolla Office                     Osage Beach Office
(417) 501-1048                              (573) 426-5447                  (573) 348-1466
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Springfield, MO 65807                   Rolla, MO 65401               Osage Beach, MO. 65065