21 Jun Dental Myths that Could be Damaging Your Teeth
There is a variety of proactive things you can do to protect your dental health: visiting your dentist every six months for a thorough cleaning and dental exam, brushing twice daily with a fluoridated tooth paste and flossing every day. However, you may also hear of a few dental myths that are circling out there. Here are just a few:
Teeth whitening is damaging. The new teeth whitening systems available today are less harsh than when first introduced years ago. Tooth sensitivity is probably the most problematic issue you might face when brightening your smile. Using a toothpaste formulated to treat sensitivity for a week or two prior to whitening should alleviate this issue.
Flossing is not important. You are asked at every dental appointment if you floss. The reason is that flossing is a critical component to your oral health. Flossing removes food debris your toothbrush is unable to reach. Gum tissue is gently massaged when flossed stimulating the gums. Plaque build-up lessens for patients that floss daily reducing the incidence of gum disease.
If I brush every day, I don’t need to go to the dentist as often. No matter how meticulous you are in caring for your teeth, you will experience some plaque build-up. At each dental appointment, plaque that has formed is removed. Realizing that plaque leads to dental decay and gum disease may motivate you to make sure you are seeing your dentist twice each year.
Scrubbing teeth will remove plaque. Using a hard bristle toothbrush and lots of pressure will produce more problems over time. Premature gum recession and worn dental enamel may result, and plaque will likely continue to grow.
Tooth loss is expected as you age. As toddlers and children, you expect to lose “baby teeth” as permanent teeth emerge that are expected to last for your lifetime. But accidents happen and problems may occur that result in the loss of one or more teeth. Patients that do not pursue some type of tooth replacement are risking bone loss and remaining teeth shifting toward the open spot. There are many alternatives when faced with tooth replacements, and we’re sure one of them will meet your needs.
Teeth straightening is for children. With advancements in methodology (clear aligners), many adults are realizing they can improve their smile and overall day to day living experiences once they’ve had their occlusion corrected.
To discuss your own treatment and care, call our team at The Dental Place today!