Dental Myths

Any kind of dental work done can be a nerve-racking experience, for both young and old. It doesn’t help that there is a lot of stress and anxiety surrounding the idea of going to the dentist, which often times makes one go without having their six-month checkup. This often times leads a person to only see the dentist when there is something apparently wrong, and this even in itself makes going to the dentist a “painful” experience. Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths floating around dentistry and dental care and believing something that isn’t true can only lead to more unnecessary fear.

However, knowledge is power and in order to lie some of your fears to rest, here are some of the most common dental myths and the truth behind them:

Myth:

However, sugar is a type of carbohydrate, so cavities can also be caused by eating bread, vegetables, potato chips, rice, and crackers. This is why having good oral hygiene habits is so important; the combination of sugar, bacteria, and acid is the true cause of tooth decay so it’s impossible to avoid. Even if you don’t eat a lot of junk food, if you have poor oral hygiene habits you will still be prone to tooth decay. It does not discriminate, so be sure to brush your teeth, or at least rinse, after every meal.

Myth: If I am not in pain, my teeth are fine

Unfortunately for those who believe this myth, when you feel pain that is not a signal that the beginning of a problem is starting to occur. Any type of pain that is coming from your mouth, teeth or gums is a sign that a serious problem may have already occurred. You can have decay going on and not be able to feel it until the problem gets severe. This is why visiting your dental for your annual six-month checkup is so vital. When a problem is caught early you will suffer less pain and anguish, and your treatment options will be much easier on your wallet.

Myth: Adults are not as prone to cavities as children