Misconceptions are incredibly common in everyday life and are formed through everyday experiences, misinformation, and biases.
So, it’s no wonder that there are quite a few misconceptions out there regarding our oral hygiene and dental health.
In fact, studies indicate that around 50-70% of us make at least one oral hygiene mistake, or have a misconception when it comes to their oral health.
Don’t be too hard on yourself if you carry a few dental misconceptions, or make a mistake or two regarding your routine dental hygiene. As the stats show, you’re in good company if you do. That’s why we’re here to help support your dental needs! And we can help you stay mistake free when it comes to maintaining good oral health.
9 Common Oral Health Misconceptions!
- Brushing Harder Cleans Your Teeth Better
Actually, brushing too hard can damage the enamel of your teeth and also irritate your gums, potentially leading to gum recession. Applying gentle pressure, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, is more effective and safer. - Only See a Dentist When You Have a Problem
Regular dental checkups (every 6 months, typically) are vital for the early detection and prevention of issues like cavities, gum disease, and preventing you from more serious (and costly!) dental issues down the road. Routine exams will also check for oral cancer. - If Your Gums Bleed, Avoid Brushing That Area
Bleeding gums often indicate inflammation (gingivitis, a form of gum disease) due to plaque buildup. Rather than avoiding that area of your gums, you should continue brushing and flossing gently to improve gum health. Avoiding the area can actually make it worse. - You Don’t Need to Floss if You Brush Well
Flossing helps minimize built-up plaque and removing trapped food particles between your teeth, especially in those areas where a toothbrush can’t reach. Not flossing increases the risk of cavities and gum disease. That said, if you hate to floss, and won’t do it, no matter what – here are some help for folks who hate to floss. - Sugar Is the Only Cause of Cavities
Cavities are caused by acid-producing bacteria that feed on carbohydrates, not just sugar. Starchy foods like bread, crackers (Goldfish!) and pasta can also fuel cavity-causing bacteria. - White Teeth Are Always Healthy Teeth Cosmetically, white teeth may look good, but they aren’t necessarily healthy. Tooth decay and gum disease can exist even in white teeth. Health depends more on the structural integrity of your teeth and the condition of your gums.
- Baby Teeth Don’t Matter Because They Fall Out Anyway
They may be just “temps”, but tooth decay or damage in baby teeth can affect the development of permanent teeth and lead to infections, speech issues, or spacing problems later on. Learn more about the importance of your child’s baby teeth! - Bad Breath is Related to Poor Dental Hygiene Only
While maintaining poor dental hygiene is a common cause, bad breath (halitosis) can also be connected to issues like dry mouth, sinus infections, digestive problems, or certain medications. Tip: Brushing your tongue could work wonders for keeping your breath fresh. - If a Tooth Doesn’t Hurt It’s a Healthy Tooth
Unfortunately, many dental issues (like cavities, infections, or gum disease) can be painless in early stages. Waiting for a sign of pain to act up will most likely mean that the damage may be deep, possibly requiring a more serious dental treatment – like a root canal. That’s why your routine dental checkups and X-rays are crucial because you can’t always feel dental disease until it becomes more expensive, more invasive, and more painful to treat.
Staying on top of your routine dental check-ups, cleanings, and not skimping on your oral hygiene time are the best things you can do to do help prevent more serious dental issues from occurring and keeping your teeth healthy.
And, when in doubt, please do reach out to us if you have any questions regarding your oral health, whether it’s a change in your teeth or gums, or you want some cosmetic dental support. We’re here for you!
If it’s been a while since you’ve had a check-up, or someone in your family is overdue for one, please give us a call at (206) 242-0066 to schedule an appointment or reach out to us online!
