Throughout our lives we hear about many myths that sometimes we never corroborate. These come from word of mouth or even through the Internet. On this occasion, we are going to comment on the dental myths that have sometimes worried us so much because they have not been contrasted.
What are the most common false dental myths?
Dental myths can cause serious problems to our oral health. Below, we will unveil the 10 most universal and curious dental myths.
Wisdom teeth should always be removed
We always have or think we have the certainty that when our wisdom teeth are starting to come in we should go to our dentist so that they can be extracted.
This dental myth is obviously false, since extraction is recommended when these molars generate problems and infections due to their position and development. It is also recommended when there is insufficient space in the jaw to avoid crowding of the teeth.
Cavities always hurt
Cavities may be present in certain parts of the tooth, such as the enamel, or they may be interdental, i.e. between two teeth.
When they are in the enamel it is very difficult to feel pain, so sometimes we do not even know we have them. The pain is usually felt when the infection spreads to the dentin, the ivory layer that surrounds the inside of our teeth, and our mouth comes into contact with hot and cold drinks and/or sugary products.
I should only go to the dentist when I feel discomfort.
Just by observing the above dental myth you will know that you should not only visit your dentist when you feel discomfort, since you will not always feel pain.
It is recommended to perform at least one or even two revisions a year, because of what may happen.
Flossing or rinsing replaces brushing
Dental rinsing and flossing are considered complementary elements, not substitutes, to improve dental hygiene. In the case of rinsing, our dentist should advise us on its frequency and use.
On the other hand, dental floss accounts for 30% of our cleanliness, so if we only brush, our hygiene and cleanliness would be 70% and not 100%, which is what should be achieved.
Hard brushes clean better
All toothbrushes have the same function and even the hardest brushes can cause injuries to our gums.
Baking soda to whiten teeth
This is one of the most talked about dental myths in the world because in the past baking soda was used as a remedy to whiten teeth.
This method is not at all advisable because it can cause damage to the enamel and erosion that leads to increased tooth sensitivity and predisposition to tooth decay.
Teeth whitening treatments should always be done under the approval and supervision of your dentist.
Water should be put on the toothbrush.
Who doesn’t pour a little water before or after putting toothpaste on their toothbrush? Curiously enough, it is a habit that is not suggested, since the most effective way to remove food debris is to brush our teeth dry.
Dentures or implants are for life
Nothing lasts a lifetime, even dentures or implants. In the case of dentures, the materials must be replaced to avoid wear and contamination, due to the evolution of the gingival tissues.
For implants, what most conditions their duration is dental hygiene, since if we do not have an adequate hygiene, our own physiology and the accumulation of bacteria will affect the permanence of the implants.
Cleanings spoil teeth
It is common to think that cleanings can damage or even scratch our teeth, but this is false. Cleanings help us to eliminate plaque and tartar, thus avoiding future pathologies such as periodontitis.
Cavities in baby teeth do not affect permanent teeth
Of all the dental myths, this is the one that has caused us future problems in the past. Tooth decay in baby teeth should also be treated and prevented through a good cleaning of our little ones, and it is even thought that it is not necessary to brush their teeth when they are babies. Even when they do not yet have teeth, they should be cleaned with gauze.
Do you need a dental check-up in Granada?
In Cervantes Dental Clinic in Granada we care about your dental health, so we advise you properly to treat your specific case.
As we always say, each one of us is different, and so is our case. For this reason, personalized and attentive service is our daily routine.
If you need a review of your dental health in your Dental Clinic in Granada, just call or write us, we will be happy to assist you.
Smile is a universal language. Come to our dental clinic in Granada and we will advise you. First appointment free of charge!
