Oral health is very important as it’s part of your overall health. And while there are many practices out there to maintain healthy gums, fresh breath, and pearly whites, myths also abound. Are you a believer in these myths about dental health? Don’t be a victim. Read on and know the truth behind these beliefs.
Sugar is the main cause of tooth decay.
Although the sugar in candies and chocolates indeed plays a big role in the formation of cavities and tooth decay, acids derived from bacteria found in the mouth combined with saliva are the primary culprits. This occurrence is related to the consumption of carbohydrates in general, not just sweet treats. Carbohydrates, such as bread and chips, also contain sugars and they stick to your teeth, breaking down your tooth enamel and feeding the bacteria in your mouth.
Research says flossing is unnecessary.
The reality is that research regarding this topic is not enough to prove the advantages of flossing. This is primarily because of the challenge in creating a controlled study of flossing. Studies like these need to rely on participant reports, which can be inaccurate. Most flossing studies involve only a small population and are usually conducted in short durations, making them ineffective in completely proving the benefits that come with flossing.
However, a lot of experienced dentists can attest to the benefits of flossing. A dentist can almost always tell if a person flosses or not by mere inspection of the person’s mouth. In the best dental office – Landmark Plaza Dentistry, a lot of cases show dental decay due to lack of care of areas between the teeth.
Pregnant women should not be concerned with bloody gums.
Pregnancy gingivitis is a condition experienced by some pregnant women and should be a concern. Proper oral hygiene including regular tooth brushing and flossing together with regular visits to the dentist’s office will help prevent this oral complication that comes with pregnancy.
Gum disease is rare.
On the contrary, gum disease is common. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP) found that almost half of adults aged 30 and above have some type of gum disease. It appears that as people age, we become naturally prone to infections such as one involving the gums.
Fluoride is dangerous for the health.
This is part of a long debate that’s been ongoing. A person needs 5 to 10 grams of fluoride intake for it to be lethal. Fortunately, the regular dosage found in dental products is estimated to be around 0.7 to 1.2 parts per million, which is diluted. For this fluoride concentration to cause harm, a person has to ingest a lot of the product. In small quantities, however, the advantages outweigh the risks. But it is recommended that young children should be given nonfluoride toothpaste because they cannot effectively spit out toothpaste.
Bad breath is a symptom of gum disease.
Bad breath is indicative of other health issues, not only bad breath. The best way to know the reason behind bad breath is to consult your dentist. If he does not see anything wrong with your mouth, then it would be wise to check with your doctor. Bad breath is also a sign of bowel obstruction, acid reflux, and other digestive problems.
Listerine can cause cancer.
This is among the more sensational myths that are surprisingly believed by some people. Several years ago, there was a European study that generated the write-up of various articles pointing to alcohol-based mouthwashes as a cause of cancer. Although there was a correlation established by the study, it would be worthwhile to note that the results referred to excessive use described as at least three times a day. It was also unclear if improper oral hygiene or alcohol content was the leading cause of the increased risk of cancer. What the study established was the correlation between poor oral hygiene and dental care increased a person’s risk of oral cancer.
Silver fillings do not pose health risks.
Around half of silver fillings are made of mercury and can find its way into the mouth. Mercury is correlated to some chronic and autoimmune diseases. Fillings containing mercury should be replaced regularly to avoid mercury from getting into the body. People who are at high risk include those who have silver fillings while regularly consuming carbonated or hot beverages or regularly chew gum.
Diabetes causes gum disease.
Today, there are millions of people with diabetes around the world. Diabetes is a condition that makes it difficult for the body to process sugar and leads to problems with the kidneys, heart, eyes, and nerves. The buildup of sugar in the blood makes it difficult to solve common issues such as gum disease, but diabetes does not cause gum disease. Diabetic people need to be more careful with their oral health to avoid this kind of problem.
Oral health is an essential aspect of our overall health that should not be neglected. Be informed and don’t be fooled by these myths. Armed with proper knowledge and regular oral care, you will achieve a healthy mouth that gives way to a pretty smile – one that could brighten up someone’s day.
