Remember those times when you were told that you were not cleaning your teeth properly if you weren’t brushing hard? You were a kid, you fell for it. But here’s a truth bomb alert, it is a myth. Brushing your teeth harder doesn’t make them cleaner.
We’re sure you must have heard a hundred myths like these. You considered them true and followed them blindly. But not anymore. You’re never too old to dispel myths you have grown up with. It’s time to make a change and be more aware than ever.
This blog will discuss some of those myths in detail.
Brushing your teeth harder makes them cleaner
To pick up where we left off. No, brushing your teeth harder doesn’t make it cleaner. In fact, you’re doing more damage than good if you are following this practice. Brushing your teeth harder can wear down the enamel, causing discolouration and making your teeth more sensitive. In addition, brushing your teeth harshly can also inflict damage on the gums. Instead, you must brush your teeth gently for two minutes with a soft-bristled brush, twice a day.
You can only get braces when you are young
Planning to get braces but hesitating because you’re older? It’s an age-old myth that braces are just for kids and teenagers. Even adults can get braces if they desire straighter teeth. The origin of this myth stems from the misconception that braces don’t work when you get older as your teeth develop.
Even though there is no denying that braces work faster when jawbones are in the growth process, but your teeth continue to shift as you age. Hence, straightening teeth is still possible when you’re older. However, if you have certain medical conditions such as diabetes, you may be asked to refrain from teeth straightening treatments. It’s best to talk to your doctor to explore more options if there are any suitable for you.
Thanks to the advancing technology, there are a plethora of options available that help in teeth straightening – from clear aligners to ceramic braces.
Oral health doesn’t have anything to do with general health
You’re wrong if you think general health has nothing to do with oral health. Poor oral health can cause gum disease. Bacteria from gum disease can actually enter the bloodstream and lead to serious health issues, such as dementia, respiratory issues, pregnancy complications and cardiovascular issues. Hence, it won’t be wrong to say that you must give good consideration to oral hygiene for better well-being.
White teeth are always healthy
Did you ever see someone with pearly white teeth and immediately thought they had healthy teeth? If you did, you are not alone. White teeth are often associated with healthy teeth. But just so you know pearl white teeth may not always be healthy. The colour doesn’t reflect the teeth’s health. Instead, maintaining good oral hygiene practices and seeking professional dental care are cornerstones for overall oral health.
Nevertheless, it is best to get a dental checkup to have a clear idea of your oral hygiene and health – even if you don’t have any dental problems.
Excess sugar can cause cavities
Remember those days when you were told eating candies and chocolates can cause cavities? This is what we have heard growing up. But truth be told, it is not the excess sugar that can cause cavities, instead, it is the time you let that sugar sit in your mouth. Sugar attracts bacteria, which can produce an acid compound, causing tooth decay. It’s good practice to brush your teeth after eating sugary food.
Flossing is not necessary
You already brush your teeth two times a day, so why would you need flossing? We’re certain that’s what you think. But just so you know flossing is as important as brushing teeth. Flossing helps remove plaque build-up. This build-up can cause tooth decay in the long run. Although there are dental cleaning sessions available, flossing every day is much better for oral health and your wallet.
Closing thoughts
A healthy smile goes beyond aesthetics – it impacts your overall well-being. By debunking these common myths, you can make informed decisions about your dental care routine and keep your beautiful smile shining bright. Schedule regular checkups with your dentist, practice good oral hygiene habits, and enjoy the confidence that comes with a healthy smile!
