Dental myths exposed: Maintaining oral hygiene and a healthy smile
We read and hear about dental care tips from a variety of sources, but how can do we know what is fact and what is fiction? To help dispel some of the myths and offer some clarity on what you really should or should not do when it comes to taking care of your pearly whites and maintain your overall oral health, here is some expert advice.
Do
- believe that “baby” or deciduous teeth act as space maintainers and guide for the eruption of baby teeth
- understand that large doses of fluoride, iodine, water and pure oxygen are all unsafe
- believe that orally ingesting an aspirin is better than placing it on your tooth when you have an ache
- believe that brushing and flossing will reduce the bacterium that causes infection and results in bleeding gums
Don't
- think that all fillings eventually need replacing
- think that if you have a cavity you will automatically know it
- think that sensitivity means you have tooth decay
- think that the only reason for a root canal is a cavity
Do believe that “baby” or deciduous teeth act as space maintainers and guide for the eruption of baby teeth
If baby teeth are removed early, as a correction for decay, a child may experience problems when their permanent teeth begin growing in. It is best to have the dentist restore a baby tooth that has decay. This will allow surrounding permanent teeth to come in correctly.
Do understand that large doses of fluoride, iodine, water and pure oxygen are all unsafe
Iodine from table salt can actually help prevent thyroid disease. Water and oxygen are required to live, but how much is too much? Like most things in life, moderation is key. Fluoride, for instance, when it is placed in drinking water at less than 1 ppm (parts per million), has a profound effect on reducing decay in developing teeth. Before you dive into using one of these products, read up on the best dosage for your body and teeth.
Do believe that orally ingesting an aspirin is better than placing it on your tooth when you have an ache
Some believe that physically placing aspirin or ibuprofen on a toothache will make the pain go away faster. This is completely false. Aspirin can actually burn your gum tissues if it is applied directly. For immediate relief, take ibuprofen or any over the counter pain reliever you prefer and call your dentist to schedule an appointment so you can determine the cause of your pain and get it taken care of properly. Prior to your appointment, avoid sweets and any food or drinks that are extreme temperatures—hot or cold.
Do believe that brushing and flossing will reduce the bacterium that causes infection and results in bleeding gums
Have you ever brushed or flossed only to discover your gums start to bleed? It isn’t because you have missed a few days of brushing and flossing, and your gums aren’t used to it. Bleeding is actually a result of bacteria growth. In order to prevent bleeding, make sure to brush and floss daily to keep bacterial infections at bay, and teeth and gums healthy.
Do not think that all fillings eventually need replacing
Fillings need only be replaced if they break down or new cavities form around them. If a tooth fractures, you may also need to replace a filling. Fillings can survive a lifetime, but if you don’t take care of your teeth and practice good oral hygiene habits, fillings may not last as long.
Do not think that if you have a cavity you will automatically know it
More often than not, mild tooth decay doesn’t have symptoms. Usually by the time we feel tooth decay, the cavity is more advanced and there may be damage to the nerve. If you wait too long to have a problem looked at, the procedure required will be more expensive.
Do not think that sensitivity means you have tooth decay
Tooth sensitivity can simply mean you have extra sensitive teeth, or it may mean you have gum recession that has exposed your root surface. While sensitivity is not always an indication of decay, it is always best to ask your dentist to take a look. Toothpastes like Sensodyne can be very effective in reducing sensitivity.
Do not think that the only reason for a root canal is a cavity
The reason a dentist recommends or performs a root canal is because the nerve inside the tooth has damage. Nerve damage can result from untreated cavities, but there are many other causes as well. Clenching, grinding or injury can traumatize teeth enough to cause nerve damage requiring a root canal. By keeping clenching and grinding to a minimum, wearing protective mouth gear and regular dental hygiene and check-ups, you can minimize the necessity for a root canal.
Summary
Knowing when to worry and when not to worry is essential in maintaining your dental health. It is always important to consult with a dentist if you feel there may be something wrong with you or your loved one’s teeth, but to help avoid costly treatments when you may not need it means doing the research and keeping up with daily oral hygiene and preventative care.
