Exposing Common Dental Myths
Just
as there are misconceptions about medicine, like “You’ll catch a cold
if you go outside with wet hair,” some inaccuracies about dentistry also
exist. It’s important to separate fact from fiction so that you can
protect the healthy and beauty of your smile. Read through the following
myths to learn the real truth!
Myth: Only kids get cavities.
Truth: In recent years, the number of school-age children with tooth decay has decreased, but there has been a rise in cavities in older adults. Often, body changes, medications, and decreased mobility can impact your oral health. Your dentist can provide tips to protect your smile at any age.
Myth: I don’t need to worry about my child’s baby teeth.
Truth: Even though primary teeth will eventually fall out, they provide several functions. First, they serve as placeholders for the permanent teeth until they erupt. Also, baby teeth help your child with speech development and chewing.
Myth: Root canals cause pain.
Truth: Actually, the discomfort you feel usually occurs because pain and pressure build up inside the tooth when the pulp, or nerve center, dies. During a root canal, the dentist will remove the diseased tissue, clean out the tooth, and fill the inside to prevent additional problems. Most people feel better after the procedure, and any mild discomfort can be controlled with ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Myth: If I chew sugar-free gum, I don’t need to brush and floss.
Truth: While some research indicates that chewing sugar-free gum can help prevent cavity development, it isn’t a substitute for good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing remove plaque and bacteria from areas sugar-free gum can’t help.
Myth: Placing an aspirin next to a tooth will help with a toothache.
Truth: The only way for an aspirin to help is for you to swallow it as directed. Placing the tablet directly next to the tooth can cause an acid burn or irritation.
Myth: Only kids get cavities.
Truth: In recent years, the number of school-age children with tooth decay has decreased, but there has been a rise in cavities in older adults. Often, body changes, medications, and decreased mobility can impact your oral health. Your dentist can provide tips to protect your smile at any age.
Myth: I don’t need to worry about my child’s baby teeth.
Truth: Even though primary teeth will eventually fall out, they provide several functions. First, they serve as placeholders for the permanent teeth until they erupt. Also, baby teeth help your child with speech development and chewing.
Myth: Root canals cause pain.
Truth: Actually, the discomfort you feel usually occurs because pain and pressure build up inside the tooth when the pulp, or nerve center, dies. During a root canal, the dentist will remove the diseased tissue, clean out the tooth, and fill the inside to prevent additional problems. Most people feel better after the procedure, and any mild discomfort can be controlled with ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Myth: If I chew sugar-free gum, I don’t need to brush and floss.
Truth: While some research indicates that chewing sugar-free gum can help prevent cavity development, it isn’t a substitute for good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing remove plaque and bacteria from areas sugar-free gum can’t help.
Myth: Placing an aspirin next to a tooth will help with a toothache.
Truth: The only way for an aspirin to help is for you to swallow it as directed. Placing the tablet directly next to the tooth can cause an acid burn or irritation.