Scratching your head over conflicting facts on maintaining your pearly whites? Just because someone said it, doesn’t always make it true! Lets clear up some common dental health misconceptions that are not to be believed. And of course, if things get really confusing, call us at Gallery 57 Dental for the facts!
1. Avoid brushing and flossing if your gums are bleeding. Fact: Bleeding gums might be a sign that plaque and food particles are accumulating along your gum line and the gums have become irritated and inflamed. Thoroughly removing the plaque by brushing and flossing will clear that situation up.
2. If you don’t experience dental pain, regular dental visits are not necessary. Fact: Beginning decay and gum disease do not cause symptoms! It’s essential that patients see their dentists regularly for professional cleanings and examinations. Finding and treating dental problems when they are small is the most effective way to take care of your dental health.
3. All mouthwashes do the same job. Fact: Check the ingredients before buying mouthwash. Not all brands are suitable for everyone. For instance people with dry mouth, who develop mouth ulcers and experience sensitivity, should avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol.
4. Baby toothpaste is better for children. Fact: Some baby toothpaste brands don’t have enough fluoride in them to help prevent tooth decay. Choose a brand that contains at least 1,000ppm fluoride.
5. Chewing gum is bad for your teeth. Fact: Clinical studies have shown that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes following meals can help prevent tooth decay. The chewing increases the flow of saliva, which washes away food and other debris providing disease-fighting substances throughout the mouth. Xylitol is the most effective sweetener for preventing decay. But chewing sugarless gum is NOT a substitute for brushing and flossing!
