7 Debunked Myths About Your Teeth and Gums That You Shouldn’t Believe In

The message might get muddled when new breakthroughs in healthcare occur on a daily basis. Dental myths may wreak havoc on your oral health rather than help you keep your teeth healthy. That’s why we have gathered these seven debunked myths about your teeth and gums that you shouldn’t believe in.

1. You can brush your teeth only in the morning

If you want to have healthy teeth and gums, it is essential to brush your teeth at least twice a day. This is because the bacteria in your mouth thrive when you don’t reduce their number. As a result, people who don’t maintain proper oral hygiene are usually more prone to gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral issues. 

2. Tooth decay is always painful

Even though cavities are often associated with toothache, primary stages of tooth decay may develop asymptomatically. This is because the upper layers of the tooth (tooth enamel and dentin) don’t contain nerve endings, so you may not know that you have a developing cavity. So if your tooth hurts, it can be a sign of advanced tooth decay. 

3. Gum disease affects only smokers

Indeed, people who smoke or use tobacco are more likely to develop gum disease, since tobacco by-products accumulate on the teeth and irritate gums. But you should know that the main cause of gum disease is bacterial overgrowth that occurs because of poor oral hygiene. Other risk factors for gum disease include heredity, hormonal fluctuations, aging, and vitamin C deficiency. This means that gum disease can affect everyone, even children. 

4. The harder you brush your teeth, the cleaner they are

It may seem that you should press on the toothbrush while brushing your teeth to remove all the debris and bacteria. But the reality is that such a practice can do more harm than good. Aggressive tooth brushing as well as using a toothbrush with firm bristles can scratch and even remove your tooth enamel. That’s why it is better to brush your teeth gently but thoroughly and use a toothbrush with soft bristles. 

5. Only white teeth can be considered healthy 

It’s a popular misperception that brilliant white teeth are healthy. Because no two people’s teeth have the same natural hue, having white teeth doesn’t mean perfect condition of the oral cavity. If one person’s teeth are whiter than another’s, it does not imply that they have superior dental hygiene. The absence of cavities and the presence of fresh breath are two primary indicators of healthy oral health.

6. There is no need to replace a missing tooth

Many people think that if they have lost a tooth, there is no need to replace it. Indeed, the neighboring teeth can fill in the gap, but you should understand that this can lead to unpleasant complications. You may get facial asymmetry and shifted teeth that can affect your ability to eat and speak normally.

7. You should visit a dentist only if you have  symptoms

Indeed, if you have some obvious signs of oral issues, you need to make an appointment with your dentist. But you should understand that many conditions develop asymptomatically for a long time and may cause symptoms only when they become advanced. That’s why regular visits to your dentist for examinations are essential.