When it comes to taking care of your teeth, there is a lot of misinformation and dental myths out there. The basics of good oral care are simple, yet it can become more complicated to tease out truth from the myths. Before you believe the hype, consider basic dental care as recommended by dentists and orthodontists widely.
Here is the real truth behind some common dental myths:
Gum Disease is Serious
One of the biggest myths out there is that gum disease is not that serious; truth be told, gum disease can lead to fatal medical issues including heart disease and stroke. Gum disease involves an advanced state of tartar and plaque on the teeth; this plaque can break free and travel through the bloodstream to other parts of the body. This could be catastrophic. The best means of preventing this- and other- medical complications is to have your teeth regularly cleaned and descaled by a dentist, in addition to good daily dental hygiene.
Brushing Gently is Better
Do not listen to those that tell you that brushing your teeth more vigorously and harder is better; it is not! In fact, you can do serious damage and cause significant erosion to the enamel of your teeth over time. Brushing harder makes your teeth more vulnerable to problems, like decay and cavities, as well as can be the cause of tooth sensitivity. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently brush in circles. Skip the acidic and harsh toothpastes too; opt for a sensitive teeth or gentler product, instead.
Flossing is Vital
For some reason, the myth that flossing isn’t that important still continues to float around: this could not be further from the truth. Flossing is vital to good oral care and dental hygiene. Flossing is the most effective way to remove the tartar that hardens to plaque between teeth and along the gum line, places where your toothbrush may miss. Don’t listen to the myths; floss as recommended by your regular dental provider.
Your Dentist Knows
Lastly, do not fall for the myth that you can trick your dentist into thinking that you have been maintaining good oral practices since the last appointment. Your dentist can tell if you have or have not been brushing and flossing regularly. Once tartar turns to plaque, it is hard to remove and will require the specialized tools of your dentist, plus your gums may appear red or inflamed. Just know that your dentist knows!
Recommit to taking the best care possible of your teeth and schedule an appointment at Old Mt Pleasant Dentistry, in Mt Pleasant, SC. From preventative care to emergency service provision, you can count on us for your dental needs across the lifespan.
