General dentistry comes with a laundry list of myths, misconceptions, and misunderstandings. From old wives tales to modern memes, it’s all too easy for those of us without proper qualifications to get things wrong. Thankfully, the general dentistry and orthodontic experts at Parkcrest Dental Group are here to help.
Parkcrest offers general dentistry services, pediatric dentistry, and cosmetic dentistry services to patients in and around Springfield, MO. In this blog, we’re going to look at some common and enduring general dentistry myths about oral health and hygiene.
Only Sugar Causes Cavities
While sugar is certainly a major cause of tooth decay and cavities, it’s not the only one. A combination of different things can come together to erode your teeth enough that you develop cavities. Naturally occurring oral bacteria produce acids when they mix with your saliva that can cause erosion, and the buildup of plaque can eat away at your teeth.
Related Post: Parkcrest Dental Group: How Do Cavities Happen?
Aspirin on Your Teeth Cures a Toothache
This odd myth has had some impressive staying power, but that doesn’t make it any more accurate. In fact, directly applying aspirin to your tooth or gums is likely to damage them since aspirin is an acid. Aspirin is a painkiller that needs to be taken orally to be properly absorbed by your body. Taking some for a toothache will probably help temporarily — but applying it topically won’t.
Related Post: General Dentistry Tips For Toothaches
Bleaching and Whitening Weakens Your Teeth
Assuming that applying some kind of bleaching agent to your teeth will damage them over time might seem to make sense, but it’s not true if it’s done in moderation. Excessive teeth whitening does carry the risk of damaging the enamel, but any good general dentistry clinic or cosmetic dentistry professional will know the proper limitations.
Related Post: Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
Bleeding Gums Are Made Worse By Brushing
Counterintuitive as it may seem, brushing your teeth if your gums are bleeding will not make it worse. In fact, bleeding gums can indicate that you’re not brushing and flossing enough. Regular brushing and flossing will toughen your gums. Remember that persistent bleeding of the gums is also a clear sign of gum disease, and you should get them checked out by a professional.
Related Post: Parkcrest Dental Group: Toothbrushing Tips And Techniques
White Teeth Mean Healthy Teeth
While dazzling white teeth might look healthy, they don’t necessarily indicate health. White teeth are a cosmetic benefit — but the health of your teeth goes deeper. In many cases, things like gum disease or thin tooth enamel will be invisible to most people. If you have pearly white teeth but you also find that they’re often sensitive or bleed when you brush, you likely have an issue that needs treatment.
Find General Dentistry Services in Springfield, MO
Whatever kind of dental treatment you’re looking for, you can find the help you need with Parkcrest. Parkcrest Dental Group has helped countless patients with problems from minor issues to major problems. Find out more by contacting Parkcrest Dental Group today.
