Tackling Dental Myths

Myths circulate about practically any subject you can imagine. With oral health, there’s a variety of misconceptions about dental care. People dismiss some myths. But, the ones they believe are true can damage oral or general health. The team at Dental Care of Boca Raton wants to tackle some dental myths.

Dental Myths

Myth: Don’t brush or floss when you have bleeding gums.
If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, there is inflammation present. To remove the plaque, bacteria, and food particles on and between the teeth, you need to brush and floss. The bleeding will stop when the gums get healthier.

Myth: Brushing hard gets your teeth cleaner.
Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Position the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and brush gently back and forth. Brushing too hard can wear away enamel and gum tissue.

Myth: Chewing sugar-free gum is a substitute for brushing your teeth.
Sugar-free chewing gum containing xylitol increases saliva production. It helps wash away acids and food debris, but it can’t replace daily brushing and flossing to maintain good oral hygiene.

Myth: You can treat a toothache by putting crushed aspirin on or against the tooth.
Aspirin can burn the gums and soft tissues of the mouth because it is an acid. For temporary relief, floss the area, rinse with warm water, and take over-the-counter pain medication. Then, visit us as soon as possible.

Myth: Gum disease only affects the mouth.
The chronic infection that causes gum disease can enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body. Gum disease is linked to many serious health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

Myth: You’ll know if you have a dental problem.
With a lot of dental problems like cavities or gum disease, you may not have symptoms initially. It’s important to get regular dental exams and cleanings to identify small issues before they become big ones.

Oral health is connected to your overall health. So, the decisions you make about your dental care can affect you more than you think. Practice good oral hygiene and schedule regular dental exams and cleanings. Contact our office to schedule an appointment. We serve patients in Boca Raton, Florida, and the surrounding areas.