As dental professionals, we often hear some surprising and downright bizarre myths about oral health that many people believe to be true. These misconceptions can lead to confusion and, in some cases, poor dental habits that might harm your teeth and gums in the long run. That’s why our mission is to clear the air by addressing and debunking the most common dental health myths. By separating fact from fiction, we aim to empower you with accurate information and practical advice, so you can make the best choices for maintaining a healthy, confident smile. Knowledge is the foundation of great oral care, and we’re here to help every step of the way!
Myth #1: Brushing Your Teeth Harder Gives You a Better Clean
Many people think that brushing harder leads to a better clean. However, brushing too hard can damage tooth enamel and irritate the gums. If you want to achieve a better clean, consider brushing more frequently or replacing your toothbrush.
Myth #2: You Only Need to See the Dentist When Something Hurts
Many of us are familiar with the phrase, “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it.” This mentality often extends to our views about dental care. However, preventative care, including regular dentist visits, is crucial for avoiding severe dental problems. Going to the dentist regularly allows us to catch issues early and maintain good oral health.
Myth #3: Sugar is The Only Cause of Cavities
When we think of sugar, we often associate it with cavities, which is why many people consider candy the primary cause of tooth decay. However, sugar is not the only factor contributing to cavity formation. Several elements play a role in the development of cavities beyond just eating candy. Cavities are caused by bacteria in the mouth that produce acid, which can erode tooth enamel. These bacteria feed on sugars and starches from the food and drinks we consume, generating acid in the process.
To help prevent cavities, you can take the following steps:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day and after eating
- Floss at least once a day
- Use antimicrobial mouthwash
- Maintain a healthy diet that limits sugary and starchy foods.
To learn more, visit our blog about cavities and how to prevent them!
Myth #4: Flossing Isn’t Necessary if You Brush Well
Many consider flossing an “optional” step in their dental hygiene routine. However, flossing is one of the most crucial activities for maintaining healthy teeth. Brushing your teeth cleans only about 60% of the tooth surfaces while flossing addresses the remaining areas. Brushing and flossing should be done together daily for thorough cleaning and to help prevent cavities and gum disease.
Myth #5: Whitening Toothpaste Can Replace Professional Whitening Treatment
We often see commercials and advertisements promoting whitening toothpaste as miracle solutions for less-than-white teeth. While these kinds of toothpaste can effectively remove surface stains, they cannot change the natural color of your teeth and may struggle with stubborn stains. Professional whitening treatments use significantly higher concentrations of bleaching agents, which can produce more noticeable results on deeper discoloration. During your next visit, ask us about our professional whitening options, or check out our blog about at-home versus in-office whitening treatments!
Call Eubanks Family Dental for All Your Dental Health Concerns!
Oral health is surrounded by myths that can often lead to confusion and bad practices, but understanding the facts is the first step to a healthier smile. From the importance of gentle brushing and regular check-ups to the real causes of cavities and the role of flossing, debunking these misconceptions helps you make better choices for your dental care. Every smile is unique, and personalized advice from your dentist is critical to maintaining optimal oral health. Still have questions about your dental routine or treatments? Schedule your next visit with Eubanks Family Dental to get the facts and the care your smile deserves! We serve Beaverton, Oregon, and the surrounding areas, including Aloha, Tigard, and Hillsboro.
