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We’ve all heard the dental myths we can’t seem to shake. Whether it’s a lingering belief from childhood or something we heard from a friend, there are some dental myths out there that won’t die. But what are they? And more importantly, are they true? This blog post will look at seven of the most common dental myths and set the record straight once and for all. Read on to learn more!
Myth #1 – You only need to go to the dentist once a year 
The myth that you only need to go to the dentist once a year is just that – a myth. In fact, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that adults go to the dentist at least twice a year. This is because regular dental check-ups can help you avoid cavities and other dental problems.
At your check-up, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums for any signs of decay or inflammation. They will also polish your teeth and remove any built-up plaque or tartar. By catching and treating any dental problems early, you can avoid more serious issues down the road.
Myth #2 – If you brush your teeth enough, you don’t need to floss
If you brush your teeth enough, you don’t need to floss – or so the myth goes. But is this true? The reality is that brushing your teeth isn’t enough to remove all the plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums. Flossing is an essential part of oral care and is one of the best ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Flossing helps remove plaque and bacteria between your teeth, which a toothbrush can’t reach. It also helps dislodge food particles and plaque that can build up on your teeth over time. This can lead to cavities and other dental problems. So if you want to keep your teeth and gums healthy, be sure to floss every day. In addition to brushing and flossing regularly, see your dentist for professional cleanings and checkups.
Myth #3 – If your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, you have gum disease
If your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have gum disease. However, it is a sign that something is wrong, and you should visit your dentist to find out what’s causing the bleeding and get it treated. Gum disease is a common problem and can cause serious health problems if not treated. The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, and it can be treated relatively easily with good oral hygiene habits and a professional cleaning from your dentist.
If you don’t treat gingivitis, it can progress to a more severe stage called periodontitis. At this stage, the gums pull away from the teeth and form pockets that can become infected. The infection can damage the bone and tissues that support the teeth; eventually, the teeth may fall out. So if your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, don’t panic – but do take action. Visit your dentist for a check-up to determine what’s causing the bleeding and get started on treatment if necessary.
Myth #4 – Cavities are caused by sugar
It’s no secret that sugar is terrible for your teeth. But many people don’t know that sugar is not the only cause of cavities. Cavities are caused by a combination of bacteria, plaque, and sugar. While sugar does play a role in the development of cavities, it’s not the only thing to blame. Plaque is a sticky film that forms on your teeth, composed of bacteria, saliva, and food particles.
When plaque isn’t removed regularly through brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar. Tartar is a set form of plaque that can’t be removed with regular brushing and flossing. It can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist. The bacteria in plaque and tartar produce acid, which attacks your teeth and causes cavities. Sugar makes the bacteria more acidic, which is why limiting your intake of sugary foods and drinks is essential.
Myth #5 – Children’s baby teeth don’t need to be brushed as often as adult teeth
Just because children have baby teeth doesn’t mean they don’t need to brush them! Baby teeth need to be cleaned just as often as adult teeth – two times a day is ideal. This is especially important for preventing cavities and other dental problems.
One of the biggest reasons parents don’t brush their children’s teeth as often as they should is because they think the baby’s teeth will fall out eventually anyway. While it’s true that most children will lose their baby teeth between ages 5 and 7, that doesn’t mean they can go without brushing for that long. Cavities can form even before all of the baby teeth fall out. So what are some tips for brushing your child’s teeth?
-Use a toothbrush specifically designed for children, with soft bristles.
-Let your child help you brush their teeth – this will help them learn how to do it themselves later on.
-Make sure to brush all of the surfaces of the teeth, including the back molars.
-Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste – too much can cause your child to swallow it and potentially get sick.
-Brush for two minutes at least.
Myth #6 – You can use toothpaste of any kind, regardless of your dental needs
Like many people, you might think that all kinds of toothpaste are created equal – that you can use any type, regardless of your dental needs. But that’s a myth! There are different types of toothpaste to meet different needs. For example, if you have sensitive teeth, you’ll want to use toothpaste with ingredients like potassium nitrate, which helps to relieve sensitivity.
If you have gum disease, you’ll want to use toothpaste with antibacterial ingredients like triclosan or chlorhexidine. So if you’re not sure which toothpaste is right for you, be sure to ask your dentist – they’ll be able to recommend the best option for your unique situation. And remember, it’s always important to brush twice daily and floss once daily for healthy teeth and gums.
Myth #7 – If a crown or filling falls out, it’s not worth fixing
When it comes to dental work, there are a lot of myths out there. One of the most common is that if a crown or filling falls out, it’s not worth fixing. This isn’t always the case, though. If you’re experiencing a situation like this, you must consult your dentist. They’ll be able to tell you if the issue is something that can be fixed relatively easily or if more extensive work is necessary.
In most cases, it is possible to fix a crown or filling that has come loose. This may involve re-cementing the dental work or using a temporary adhesive. It’s important to remember that even if a crown or filling falls out, your teeth still need to be taken care of. You should continue brushing and flossing regularly and see your dentist for checkups as recommended.
Summary
Although there are many dental myths floating around, it’s important to remember that the vast majority of them are false. By debunking these myths and learning the truth about oral health, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy for life. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to talk to your dentist – they’re experts when it comes to oral health and will be more than happy to help.
Here at Bulverde North Family Dental, we only want the best for you and your beautiful smile. To make sure of that, it’s imperative to know oral health care truths and dispel any myths you may have heard. If there’s anything on your mind or you’re unsure about something, please give us a call at (830) 438-2273– our team would be more than happy to chat with you!
