Debunking Dental Myths: Setting The Record Straight

Ever heard those crazy dental myths that make you cringe and question everything you ever thought about teeth? Like brushing harder to make your teeth whiter and that root canals are basically a punishment from a horror movie? Don’t worry, you are not alone.

Dental myths have a way of living longer than they should and can be grown into monstrous stories. But we are here to debunk them! Let’s set the story straight and inform you of some of the most common dental myths so that you can stay informed (and keep a smile on your face!) at your next dental appointment!

Myth: Brushing Harder Cleans Better

Fact: Brushing harder can do more harm than good.

Because jamming that brush around with so much power feels like you’re erasing all that plaque. Which you are! But you’re also destroying your own teeth because you’re weakening the natural enamel (or shell) of each tooth. Plus, you’re making your gums irate. Pick a soft brush and do.those.circles.

Myth: Root Canals Are Excruciatingly Painful

Fact: Modern root canals are virtually painless.

If you had to get a root canal in, say, the 1920s and they didn’t have the 21st-century version of pain relief (basically, the stuff that makes you care less that you’re having work done on your teeth), it would be smart a little. A trained professional, such as a dentist or orthodontist in Langley, will numb the area around the root he’s working on and you’ll feel… what? Nothing! So chill, guys.

Myth: Dental Treatments Are Always Expensive

Look at the evidence: Preventive dental work is often very cost-effective and actually saves you money.

Not going in for those check-ups and teeth-scrubbing (i.e. cleanings) means potentially bigger problems (cavities and tooth decay and feeble gums) going untreated (until they get really costly to fully correct). And a lot of specialists have various financing options for folks looking to get it on with dental care.

Myth: White Teeth Mean Healthy Teeth

Fact: Teeth color doesn’t always indicate health.

Yeah, a row of white, straight teeth looks nice. But it’s truly a moot point in the near happiest, healthiest mouth on the back 40 if the gums are in a continual state of rage. And, really, you could have cavities, gum disease and enamel erosion and still look like a toothpaste advertisement. So, basically, nobody’s out of the woods here.

Myth: Sugar Is the Only Cause of Cavities

Fact: While sugar contributes to cavities, it’s not the sole culprit.

Cavities form when bacteria in your mouth make acids that wear down your teeth. And bacteria like to eat. Bread, crackers and many fruits can give them the fuel they need to really damage your teeth. Brushing and flossing your teeth and seeing a dentist can help you avoid cavities.

Myth: You Only Need To Visit The Dentist If Something Hurts

Fact: Preventive care is crucial for a healthy mouth.

It doesn’t always hurt because things like cavities are often listed as painless… until it hits that nerve in the tooth, at which point getting treatment done can almost be feared. With regular preventative visits, dental issues can be caught while at an early stage and aren’t as painful either!

Myth: Baby Teeth Don’t Need Special Care

Fact: Healthy baby teeth set the stage for strong adult teeth.

Why would it be if the tooth wasn’t there long enough to cause decay? One reason that baby teeth decay could affect the adult teeth developing next to it — is they are almost always touching. Think of one of the times in your life when you had a cavity or something not quite right with a tooth; it felt huge, it was all you thought about. The infection could affect the permanent tooth and damage the healthy tooth. Teeth start developing while in the womb and the day that first milk tooth pops through — it should be kept healthy and protected- so starting early in their life is beneficial (let them see a dentist as well).

Myth: Gum Bleeding While Brushing Is Normal

Fact: Bleeding gums often signal an issue.

Another common error– “My gums bleed when I brush and floss them,” he’d say. It was just when he brushed and flossed his teeth. Once I explained to him what I would tell you, “Clean your toes and gently!” Lord bless his heart and now he keeps an immaculate mouth. If your gums bleed here and there, it’s probably no big deal since you usually don’t go around poking at your gums. You’re right. Talk to your dentist, though; it’s an easy fix- but don’t ignore it.

Myth: Orthodontic Treatments Are Just For Kids

Fact: Braces and aligners are effective for adults, too.

Do you think you are too old for Orthodontic Treatment? Guess again! It’s never too late to get that smile and fix those teeth. More and more (did I say more?) adults are choosing to get braces or Invisalign. And, no. You’re never too old for Orthodontics. Call today and schedule your first appointment at an Orthodontist near you to get your smile journey started.

Why Modern Dentistry Is Different

Times have changed in the world of dentistry. There are more treatment options than ever before and they’re much faster, much more comfortable and less invasive. Plus, there’s everything from digital imaging to nearly painless anesthesia. Dentists work hard to help patients have the most positive experience possible.

Dentists have a care-centered approach and while they’re now more of a partner in prevention, they help people who need it with dental anxiety as well as people who want specific kinds of aesthetic procedures.

Take Charge Of Your Dental Health

A lot is at stake when it comes to your oral health. You and your dentist are partners in caring for your mouth. So ask questions, go to check-ups and don’t fall for one of these myths that might get in the way.

If you’re not sure where to turn, ask for recommendations. And don’t stop seeking care for fear of one of these. You can even start by talking to a professional, such as an orthodontist, Surrey. And you’ll be glad that you did.

Debunking all of these dental myths is the first step in taking ownership of your oral health with a positive, educated attitude. And modern dentistry is definitely on your side. Which is the best news of all, for your smile.

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