Debunking 4 Common Dental Myths

Dental myths are prevalent, mostly because people enjoy having an excuse not to visit the dentist! However, buying into some of these common dental myths and misconceptions can be very damaging to your oral health. Here at Meadows Family Dentistry, we think that educating yourself about your own dental health is a vital way of maintaining it and making informed decisions regarding your oral care.

Debunking Dental Myths

Below are 4 of the most commonly heard dental myths and the truth behind them:

1. White teeth are healthy teeth – The natural color of teeth will vary for everyone. Someone with excellent dental health may have naturally duller teeth than someone with white teeth. Additionally, a person with a bright white smile may be suffering from hidden dental cavities or gum disease.
2. Flossing isn’t as important as brushing – Many people skip the floss, mistakenly believing that it’s not as important as brushing. However, your toothbrush is unable to reach 33% of the tooth’s surface that only floss can get to. Allowing plaque and bacteria to build up between the teeth can lead to dental cavities between the teeth as well as gum disease or gingivitis. Make sure to floss at least once a day!
3. Avoid brushing bleeding gums – Make sure that every time you brush your teeth, you’re brushing your gum tissue as well. People who have sensitive gums should brush gently, but should still be brushing. If this isn’t a step you normally take, you may notice some gum bleeding at first, but keep brushing your gums and you’ll notice that the bleeding stops as the gum tissue toughens up and becomes healthier.
4. More sugar means more cavities – Lastly, while diet does have an impact on your oral health, it really all comes down to your oral hygiene routine. Someone with a diet high in sugar who practices impeccable oral hygiene may have a healthier mouth than someone who eats only healthy foods but neglects their teeth.

Here at Meadows Family Dentistry, your oral health and that of your family is important to us! To make an appointment for the whole family to receive dental cleanings and checkups, please don’t hesitate to contact our Castle Rock, Colorado dental office today.