When it comes to caring for your oral health, there are many tips you can find online today. Yet, despite the abundance of information, not everything you see is true. Additionally, there are new developments in the dental industry that can sometimes get messages muddled. If you end up following the tips that are not suitable for your oral condition, you could end up causing more damages than you’d hope for!

In this article, we will discuss eight oral health misconceptions that you might have heard of and debunk them:

1. Oral Health Has Nothing To Do With Overall Health

Your oral health is a significant indicator of your overall health. Because of this, poor oral hygiene can increase the risk of disease in other parts of your body. For one, moderate to advanced gum disease can increase the risk of heart disease, especially among diabetic individuals. 

2. Sugar-Free Drinks Are Okay

As you were growing up, you likely have heard that sugar is bad for your oral health, which is why you would opt for sugar-free ones instead. However, have you really thought about is it really better? Keep in mind that sugar isn’t the only ingredient that can affect your oral health because even sugar-free drinks contain acids that can mix with bacteria and saliva, resulting in plaque. 

3. Sugar Causes Cavities

Indeed, sugar can contribute to the formation of cavities, but sugar isn’t the main problem, as it’s the bacteria in your mouth that eats the sugar. The bacteria produce an acid compound that can promote tooth decay. This is why it’s crucial you rinse and brush your teeth after meals to reduce the buildup of plaque and acid. 

4. Brushing Your Teeth Harder Is Better

You might assume that brushing harder against your teeth might remove more dirt and bacteria, but doing so is actually counterproductive. When you brush too hard, it causes more trauma to the tooth enamel and gum tissue that can lead to other oral issues. For this reason, make sure you stick to gentle brushing, at least twice a day, using a soft-bristled brush. 

5. White Teeth Means Healthy Teeth

No, white teeth don’t mean they’re healthy. Keep in mind that teeth begin white, and over time, they can be discoloured. Using whitening products may only enhance the appeal of your teeth, but they will still cover the underlying issue of discoloration. 

6. Gum Disease Is Rare

You may or may not know this, but gum disease is widespread! Moreover, as you get older, you will be more susceptible to infections, and gum disease is only one of them. 

7. Bloody Gums Are Normal For Pregnant Women

Hormones associated with pregnancy can cause sensitivity that can lead to bleeding gums, which is known as pregnancy gingivitis. However, even if it seems a “normal” part of pregnancy, it doesn’t occur in all pregnant women. Because of this, if your gums start bleeding during your pregnancy, be sure to have them checked by your dentist to ensure there are no other issues. 

8. Loss Of Tooth Enamel Can Cause Sensitivity

This isn’t the main reason your teeth are more sensitive. There are other reasons your teeth are sensitive, such as tooth grinding, abrasive toothpaste, and many more. If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, talk to your dentist to help determine the best remedy for you. 

Conclusion

With these eight misconceptions debunked, you now know how to stay away from risky practices and take care of your dental health better. At the same time, it’s important that you talk to your dentist about how you can maintain good oral health. Albeit the internet is an excellent source of information, it’s not always the best place to go, especially when it comes to health-related stuff, which is why you should always consult your dentist. 

Are you looking for a trusted dentist in Edmonton? Edmonton Smiles has top-rated experts in the area, and we offer emergency dental, teeth whitening, and preventive services. Get in touch with us today to book an appointment!

Posted in Dental News & Advice