There are many common myths and misconceptions about dental hygiene. For example, does it matter how much time you brush during the day? And did you know that sugar is not the only culprit for cavities? If you want to separate fact from fiction and choose to protect those precious pearly whites, keep reading this article.
It doesn't matter what time of day I brush
This is wrong. Dentists recommend that patients brush their teeth at least twice a day, once in the morning, and once at night. This is because, at night, our salivary glands produce less saliva than during the day. Saliva naturally cleans the mouth and gets rid of any food particles that can get stuck on our teeth. When we don’t brush before bed, these particles can stay on our teeth all night and contribute to tooth decay over time. Brushing in the morning is equally important for fighting plaque build-up and bad breath.
You need to see a dentist when your teeth are injured
Dentists recommend that you book an appointment at least twice a year. Even if your teeth don't hurt, you still need to be examined like the rest of your body when you go to the doctor for your annual check-up. Remember that prevention is better than cure, meaning it is best to catch oral diseases or issues before they become more serious and costly.
It's okay to drink baking soda because it has no sugar
This is a big legend! Although diet soda does not contain sugar, it is very acidic. Too much acidic drink can contribute to tooth decay by weakening your tooth enamel, causing tooth sensitivity. Drinks like orange juice and other citrus juices can do the same harm. Water, milk, and vegetable juices are all healthy options for keeping hydrated.
My teeth are unhealthy because I am old
Wrong again! Your teeth are not as healthy as your age, they are more likely to become unhealthy when you do not have a good habit of dental hygiene. Plenty of young people between the ages of 20-30 have poor oral health because they have bad habits. There are also adults whose teeth are healthy. By having a great dentistry routine and seeing a dentist regularly, you will probably get healthy teeth throughout your lifetime.
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 a lot of bacteria, some helpful and some harmful. Your mouth can act as an entry point for harmful bacteria to enter your body and affect your overall well-being. Ignoring your teeth can lead to various ailments like 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.
