When it comes to oral health and hygiene, myths and misbeliefs have a way of sticking around. Whether passed down through generations or passed through the grapevine, dental myths can lead to confusion and even misguided dental practices, so it is important to be aware of the actual facts. In every corner of the world, cultural beliefs and traditions shape how people perceive and approach dental care. While some of these beliefs are steeped in centuries-old practices, others have arisen due to misconceptions that have been perpetuated over time.
Some of the most common myths are:
- Teeth Cleaning leads to removal of teeth enamel: This is the biggest myth in dentistry. Teeth Cleaning also known as Scaling involves removing plaque, tartar, and stains, accumulated on the surface of the tooth, with the help of specialized hand or ultrasonic instruments, which improves gum health. Due to this myth, many people don’t get the routine teeth cleaning which is ideally recommended every 6 months, and have deteriorated gum health.
- Chewing Sugar-free gum is equal to Brushing: Sugar-free gum can provide a temporary boost in saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and wash away food debris. However, it’s not a substitute for the thorough cleaning provided by brushing and flossing. Chewing Gum doesn’t remove plaque or prevent tartar buildup, and neglecting your brushing routine can lead to cavities and other dental issues.
- Whitening Toothpaste can whiten teeth instantly: Whitening toothpaste can help remove surface stains and slightly brighten teeth over time, but they are not as effective as professional whitening treatments. Stubborn stains and discoloration often require the expertise of a dentist to achieve noticeable and lasting results.
- I need a Dentist only when my Teeth Hurts: Dental problems often start silently, with no obvious symptoms in their early stages. Regular dental check-ups are essential for detecting issues like cavities and gum disease before they progress to more painful and costly stages. Prevention is always better than cure than waiting for discomfort to appear.
- Brushing Harder gets you cleaner teeth: Brushing your teeth vigorously with excessive pressure and with improper brushing technique (horizontal brushing) can actually harm your teeth and gums. It can lead to enamel erosion, gum recession, and tooth sensitivity. A gentle yet thorough brushing technique is more effective in removing plaque without causing damage.
- Milky teeth don’t matter, they are going to fall anyway: Baby teeth play a crucial role in a child’s oral development. They help with speech, and proper chewing, and guide the eruption of permanent teeth. Neglecting baby teeth can lead to early cavities, infections, and misalignment issues that could affect the development of permanent teeth.
- Flossing can lead to spaces in between teeth: Flossing your teeth helps to remove the food particles and the plaque from between the tooth surfaces, where the routine toothbrushes cannot reach and clean. Without Flossing there can be cavity formation and gum problems over time.
- Aspirin can relieve my toothache permanently: Placing aspirin directly on a toothache is not recommended and can actually damage your gums and other oral tissues. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, it’s best to consult a dentist to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
- Chewing Betelnut for stronger teeth: In various Asian countries, including India and some Southeast Asian nations, chewing betel nut is a common practice. Locals believe that chewing betelnut, often wrapped in a betel leaf, can strengthen teeth and prevent decay. However, the reality is that betel nut is acidic and can erode tooth enamel, leading to more dental issues over time and can cause pre-cancerous conditions in the mouth.
Why Choose Teeth Care Centre?
At Teeth Care Centre, we believe in providing the most accurate and honest opinion for your dental issues. Dr. Pankti Patel, the Best Dentist in Ahmedabad and the Chief Dentist of Teeth Care Centre believes in debunking all the myths and providing you with her unbiased opinion for all your dental concerns.
Dental myths can be incessant, but relying on evidence-based dental practices and expert dental professionals is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health. Instead of falling for myths that might compromise your smile, consult a dental professional for accurate advice and proper care. Remember, your oral health is an investment that pays off in the form of a confident and healthy smile.