Maintaining good dental hygiene and oral care are vital to our ability to maintain and retain our teeth as we get older. The internet is full of dental misconceptions. Below a few of these will be proven wrong.
Myth 1. Harder Brushing Means A Cleaner Smile.
False. Excessive pressure placed on teeth and gum tissues will actually eventually cause damage. This can lead to premature enamel erosion and recession of gum tissues. It is recommended that a soft bristle toothbrush is used with even gentle pressure throughout the mouth for an effective clean.
Myth 2. Chewing Gum Helps Clean Teeth.
Chewing gum following eating should never be a replacement for good old fashioned brushing and flossing. If in a pinch, chewing gum will help if you are unable to brush. It will cause increased salivary flow which can help wash some loose debris from the oral cavity. However, it will not remove the harder plaque and the sticky plaque that forms around our teeth.
Myth 3. Baby Teeth Do Not Need Brushing.
False. Baby teeth need to be cared for just like adult teeth. Premature loss of baby teeth can cause issues of space when adult teeth are ready to erupt. Primary teeth act as placeholders for permanent teeth. It is important to maintain your baby teeth thru proper brushing at least 2 times a day.
Myth 4. Sugar Causes Tooth Decay.
False. The sugar in our foods is not the main cause of tooth decay. The bacteria in our mouth will feed off the sugar and release an acidic compound which will eventually wear down our teeth. Regular brushing especially after eating sugary foods is very important.
Myth 5. Enamel Loss Causes Sensitivity.
There are many reasons why you might experience tooth sensitivity. Enamel loss does not happen quickly. Tooth grinding, abrasive toothpaste, aggressive brushing and lack of regular proper dental hygiene all contribute to both tooth sensitivity and enamel loss. Should you lose your enamel however, you will likely experience tooth sensitivity as well.
Contact Marielaina Perrone DDS
Contact Marielaina Perrone DDS at (702) 458-2929 to schedule a no-cost implant dentistry consultation appointment if you are ready for a smile makeover or dental implants in the Las Vegas NV area.
We cannot wait to help you with your smile makeover to create the smile of your dreams in Summerlin, Henderson, and Las Vegas, NV.
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