There are many common myths and misconceptions about dental hygiene. For example, does it matter what time of day you brush? And did you know that sugar is not the sole culprit for cavities? Keep reading this article if you would like to separate fact from fiction, and to keep protecting those precious pearly whites.
Myth #1. It does not matter what time of day I brush
This is false. Dentists recommend patients to brush their teeth at least twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. The reason for this is because, at night, our salivary glands produce less saliva than during the day. Saliva naturally cleanses the mouth and gets rid of any food particles that may be stuck on our teeth. When we do not brush before bed, these particles can sit on our teeth throughout the night and contribute to tooth decay over time. Brushing in the morning is equally important to fight plaque build-up and bad breath.
Myth #2. You only need to see the dentist when your teeth hurt
Dentists recommend you book a visit at least twice yearly. Even if your teeth do not hurt, they still need to be checked up on like the rest of your body when you go to the doctor for your annual body check-up. Remember, prevention is better than the cure, meaning it is best to catch oral diseases or issues before they become more serious and costly.
Myth #3. It’s okay to drink diet soda because they do not contain any sugar
This is a big myth! Even though diet sodas may not contain sugar, they are highly acidic. Highly acidic beverages can contribute to tooth decay by weakening the enamel of your teeth, causing tooth sensitivity. Drinks such as orange juice and other citrus juice can also cause similar damage. Water, milk, and vegetable juices are all healthier alternatives to keeping hydrated.
Myth #4. My teeth are unhealthy because I am aging
False again! Your teeth do not become as unhealthy as you age, they have a higher chance to become unhealthy when you do not keep good dental hygiene habits. Plenty of young people aged 20-30 have poor oral health because they have poor habits. There are also plenty of older people who have healthy teeth. By having a great dental hygiene routine and by seeing the dentist regularly, you will likely have healthy teeth throughout your lifetime.
Myth #5. My oral health has nothing to do with the health of the rest of my body
This is completely untrue! Oral health is connected to your overall health. In fact, your mouth is home to tons of bacteria, some helpful and some hurtful. Your mouth can act as an entry point for harmful bacteria to enter your body and affect your overall wellbeing. Neglecting your teeth may lead to a host of different illnesses, such as pneumonia or cardiovascular disease.
Hopefully, this article has helped you learn more about dental care and encourages you to be proactive by committing to a good oral hygiene routine! If you are experiencing problems or have questions about your oral health, please do not hesitate to contact us here at Strathroy Family Dental.
