A quick search reveals a wealth of information about dental health online, but how can you tell which is fiction and which is fact? Much of the available information is misleading and could be harmful at worst. We have looked at some of the most common myths and the actual truth.
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Sugar Causes Tooth Decay
This is partly true but isn’t entirely right. Eating a sugary diet can contribute to cavities in Bowmanville, but this is because these foods feed bacteria found in dental plaque. This sticky biofilm is continually forming over tooth surfaces. These bacteria produce acid that erodes tooth enamel, eventually causing cavities to form. Brushing and flossing regularly and avoiding sugary snacks will reduce plaque buildup, lowering your risk of cavities.
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Bleeding Gums are Normal
It is easy to ignore blood on your toothbrush or in the sink after brushing, but gums should not bleed. Healthy gums are strong, but if they become infected and inflamed, they are more fragile and can begin to bleed. Often this is due to gum disease in Newcastle, so if you see blood in the sink, contact West Bowmanville Family Dental for help and advice. Early gum disease, called gingivitis is reversible with professional dental care, so please don’t ignore this warning sign.
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It Isn’t Necessary to Floss
Dentists in Clarington can always tell who flosses regularly and who only flosses before dental checkups. Flossing helps remove plaque and food buildup from between teeth, where your toothbrush cannot reach, and it stimulates the gums so they remain healthy and strong. It is essential to floss daily as plaque buildup will harden into tartar, and the risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease increases substantially. Still don’t want to floss every day? If you don’t, you leave around one-third of your tooth surfaces uncleaned, which isn’t a pleasant thought! We know that flossing can seem tricky, but our dental team has lots of useful tips and tricks to get you flossing like a pro, just ask us for help.
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Scrubbing Teeth Gets Them Cleaner
It is tempting to think that scrubbing your teeth or pressing hard when you brush will get your teeth cleaner. Unfortunately, you can damage your teeth and gums, literally wearing away your gum tissue and tooth enamel. You don’t need to use much pressure to clean your teeth thoroughly and should be brushing with a soft-bristled brush. We can demonstrate the proper toothbrushing techniques in Courtice and discuss which toothbrush might suit you best. Alternatively, you could purchase an electric toothbrush with built-in sensors that will alert you when you press too hard.
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Chewing Gum Will Clean My Teeth
Although chewing gum might temporarily freshen your breath, it is not a substitute for brushing your teeth twice daily. However, if you want to chew gum, choose a sugar-free variety that preferably contains xylitol, as this ingredient can help fight harmful bacteria in your mouth, providing some mild dental health benefits.
Ask the Experts
Dental education is an important part of our practice, and we are always more than happy to answer any questions about oral health or offer practical advice and help. We know the better you understand your dental health, the better you can care for your teeth and gums. Preventive dentistry is always our preferred option! Maintaining a healthy mouth is pretty straightforward with the right knowledge and a good oral care routine.
