Dental Myths

Myths are inherent to any society. 

There are them on any subject, but many myths are related to health in general and dentistry. These myths are passed down from generation to generation and presented as facts, although they are often inaccurate or false.

The truth of dental myths

This poses a health risk for people who believe them, so we wanted to reveal the reality behind the most widespread myths.
Myth: Children don't have to take care of their baby teeth.
Fact: Although baby teeth are not permanent, failure to take care of them can have detrimental consequences for permanent teeth. Definitive teeth malposition, alignment problems, or the need for orthodontic treatment are some concerns related to the loss of baby teeth due to cavities. In addition, it is vital that children learn the basics of oral hygiene when they are young, not only to take care of their mouths then but to incorporate good oral habits that accompany them throughout life.
Myth: If you don't have problems with your teeth, you don't need to go to the dentist.
Fact: Most dental problems are not evident in their initial stages. Only when they have progressed in their affectation do they begin to show signs and symptoms easily detectable by the patient who suffers them. In many cases, the dentist is the only one capable of detecting that a problem exists. Therefore, a dental clinic twice a year for regular dental check-ups and professional dental cleanings is vitally essential for maintaining good oral health. This way, dental problems can be treated before they become serious complications requiring more invasive, expensive, and uncomfortable treatment.
Myth: You should avoid brushing your teeth and flossing if your gums bleed.
Fact: Bleeding your gums is a warning that you have periodontal disease or gingivitis. Precisely for this reason, you should continue brushing and flossing your teeth gently, as gingivitis is caused by poor oral hygiene, and stop cleaning your teeth will only worsen the situation. If the bleeding doesn't stop after a few days or worsens over time, don't hesitate to contact your family dental clinic.
Myth: Sugar-free gum is a good substitute for a toothbrush.
Fact: Although chewing sugar-free gum benefits fresh breath, promoting saliva secretion and minimally cleaning your teeth after meals, it should not be considered a substitute for brushing or flossing. Dental plaque and food particles can only be completely removed with a toothbrush and floss.
Myth: Tooth decay is a problem that only affects children.
Fact: Tooth decay can occur at any age. Many situations and conditions cause both adults and the elderly to be at risk for tooth decay. As an adult, you are more prone to gingival recession, which increases the risk of root caries (in the roots of exposed teeth). In addition, many adults and older people take medications that dry their mouths. This dryness also facilitates the appearance of cavities, as the lack of saliva reduces the mouth's ability to clean bacteria and neutralize acids.
Myth: All teeth that have tooth decay and are treated will have tooth decay again in the future.
Fact: It is not impossible for a tooth treated for decay to become infected again, but this can be prevented by proper brushing and flossing. If the filling is broken or cracked, there is a greater chance of recurrence of tooth decay, but this can be prevented by restoring the filling again. Therefore, periodic monitoring of the fillings prevents the teeth that have suffered cavities from becoming infected again.
If you hear any dental myth you are unsure of, tell your dentist whether or not it is true.
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