Debunking Dental Myths at Guffee Dental
There are a lot of myths out there about your dental health – and believing the wrong information can have serious consequences for your long-term health! How can you separate fact from fiction when it comes to your oral health? The team at Guffee Dental Associates is here to help you get to the “tooth” of the matter by debunking some common dental myths.
Myth: You don’t have to floss if you have a good enough toothbrush.
Truth: The best toothbrushes can’t substitute for a thorough flossing. Whether you prefer good old dental floss or a water flosser (like Waterpik), you need a tool to provide friction and get deep in the gaps between your teeth to remove stubborn pieces of food. Our dental assistant Renne says, “If you don’t floss, your gums are going to be red and inflamed, and you’re not going to have teeth when you get older.” That’s not a myth to mess around with! To keep your gums healthy and your teeth firmly in place, we recommend flossing once a day.
Myth: Only eating sugary food causes cavities – so sugar-free treats are safe.
Truth: Cavities occur when bacteria in your mouth produce acid that erodes your tooth enamel, essentially causing your tooth to decay. Bacteria naturally live in your mouth, but certain foods and drinks trigger them to produce more acids – including sugary foods. But sugar isn’t the sole cause of tooth decay. Other foods, especially starchy and acidic foods, also contribute, so it’s important to maintain a balanced diet and limit how often you eat sugary or acidic snacks. And that does include sugar-free snacks, too: while some sugar-free products contain xylitol, which can help reduce cavity-causing bacteria, sugar-free snacks and beverages often still contain other cavity-causing components. For example, there is no sugar in diet soda, but the acidity and carbonation can still cause cavities. Eating a balanced diet can not only help keep you healthier overall, but it can also help limit the formation of cavities.
Myth: Brushing your teeth harder gets more plaque off them.
Truth: Elbow grease can be the solution for many problems, but not when it comes to keeping your teeth clean. Brushing your teeth with more force isn’t making a difference in the way you want: “It’s actually the opposite,” says Dr. Weed. “If you brush your teeth too hard, you can wear away your enamel, cause sensitivity, irritate your gums, or cause gum recession. All of that can lead to more problems.” Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush for longer rather than roughly or with a hard brush, and your teeth will thank you.
Myth: You only need to see the dentist when there is a problem.
Truth: Just like going to see the doctor, it can be easy to only make an appointment when you’re sick or in pain. When everything is smooth sailing, you may think there is no reason to make an appointment. However, you need regular dental checkups and cleanings for a variety of reasons. These checkups can prevent problems, detect issues early, and help maintain overall oral health. If it’s been a while, talk with your hygienist about getting back to a healthy baseline – it may take a few appointments before you can go back to a regular schedule. If your teeth are healthy and clean, we usually recommend visiting the dentist every six months.
Understanding your oral health can be confusing, especially with so much information out there! Let our team of experts help guide you down the path to better oral health and don’t hesitate to ask us any questions. We’re here to educate you and work together to make your smile bright and healthy! Schedule your next appointment with Guffee Dental today and let’s start making a difference.
