Dentist Gives You the Truth About 4 Oral Health Care Myths

Most of your dental health comes from the decisions you make each day, including your dietary choices, brushing and flossing routine, and whether you see a dentist in Mt. Prospect for regular checkups. Unfortunately, however, there are a lot of misconceptions around these everyday habits that can make it difficult to achieve good oral health. Keep reading below for the truth about 4 common oral health care myths so you can start making better decisions. While this information is fairly simple, it will pay off in terms of healthier gums, fewer cavities, and fresher breath!

1. “The Harder You Brush Your Teeth, the Healthier They’ll Be”

On the surface, it makes sense to think that brushing harder is the best way to clean your teeth and gums. Unfortunately, this common mistake does more harm than good. While your enamel is quite hard and tough, it can still be worn down over time from brushing too hard. You also risk receding gums that will expose the sensitive root surfaces of your teeth. 

To protect your teeth and gums, use a soft-bristled brush and only hold it with your thumb and first two fingers (as opposed to gripping it with your entire hand). That will automatically help you use lighter pressure. You can also use an electric toothbrush which, when used correctly, applies much less pressure than a manual (some even have pressure sensors to give you immediate feedback). And be sure to combine light pressure with brushing for a full 2 minutes to make sure you’re being thorough. 

2. “Flossing Makes Your Gums Bleed”

Many people mistakenly believe that flossing makes their gums bleed. The truth is that flossing will make unhealthy, inflamed gums bleed, but it won’t make healthy gums bleed. The cause of gum inflammation (also called gingivitis) stems from plaque and bacteria that isn’t being removed with adequate brushing and flossing. With that said, there are some exceptions such as unmanaged diabetes or pregnancy gingivitis which occurs because of hormonal fluctuations. 

However, the vast majority of bleeding gums is due to not brushing and flossing consistently. If you notice bleeding, it’s a sign to brush and floss (gently but thoroughly) more, not less. 

3. “You Don’t Need a Checkup If Nothing Hurts”

This couldn’t be further from the truth! 6-month checkups are designed to be preventive. Dentists and hygienists closely evaluate every aspect of your oral health during these visits, including your teeth, gums, and existing dental work. You even get simple, fast oral cancer screenings at each checkup. The goal is to find cavities and other problems when they’re small and can be easily treated with basic dental work. If you wait until you’re in pain to come in, the chances are good that you’ll need more extensive procedures like a dental crown, root canal, etc. 

4. “Sugar Is the Only Cavity Culprit”

When it comes to getting cavities, sugar is certainly an important dietary factor to be aware of, but starches matter equally as much. In fact, carbohydrate-heavy foods like chips and crackers may be worse because they adhere to your teeth longer. A good rule of thumb is to brush right away after having anything that sticks to your teeth, whether it’s taffy, gummy candies, crackers, or chips.  

Knowledge is power. And now that you know the truth about these 4 myths, you’re in a much better position to keep your smile healthy. 

About the Author

Dr. Nadia Sobolev is a family dentist in Mt. Prospect and a graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago. She believes that everyone can maintain better dental health when they have the right information and always gives her patients tips and tricks to take care of their teeth and gums. If you have any questions about oral health care, you can reach Dr. Sobolev via her website.