Dental Health Myths and Misconceptions
Good dental health is usually associated with good overall health and, as recent research has shown, this is largely true; poor oral health has been associated with heart disease, blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, and even cancers beyond oral cancer. All of this makes it important to know the difference between fiction if you want to maintain strong teeth and a healthy mouth.
The following are some of the most popular dental health myths and misconceptions, and what you need to know to keep you on the road to good oral health:
Myth #1: White teeth are healthy teeth.
While most of us want a bright smile, simply having nice white teeth doesn’t necessarily mean those pearly whites are healthy. Cavities and infections can still occur, no matter how brightly your teeth are shining.
Myth #2: Tooth decay is caused by sugar.
We’ve all been told for all our lives that sugar is the enemy of healthy teeth, leading to rot and causing tooth decay. Yet, this is not the absolute truth when it comes to the effects of sugar on your teeth.
The real problem with eating too much sugar is the naturally occurring bacteria that forms in your mouth as the sucrose is broken down for digestion. As these bacteria form, it’s not the sugar itself that causes tooth decay, but the bacteria in your mouth that feeds on sugar, using it as the energy source needed to grow and spread. Of course, brushing your teeth after consuming sugary foods or drinks will solve this problem for you, so make sure to clean your teeth after you eat those chocolate chip cookies.
Myth #3: There is a "best" mouthwash for everyone.
Different types of mouthwash are better for different patients. As with most things in life, there simply is not "one-size-fits-all" solution that can be applied to everyone. If you’re wondering which type of mouthwash is best for you to use, check with your dental professional (or us).
Myth #4: If your brush often enough, flossing isn’t necessary.
Even if you manage to brush your teeth twice a day, that’s no reason to avoid flossing. Brushing only reaches about 70% of the tooth surface, which means you’re missing about 30% of the surface of your teeth. Using dental floss can get to areas of your gums and teeth that your toothbrush simply cannot reach.
Dr. Kaushal Dhawan and staff at The Colorado Center for Implant and Prosthetic Dentistry are available to help you determine effective solutions to all your dental problems. If you would like more information from your Littleton area Prosthodontist, please call to make an appointment today.