6 common oral health myths that are false

In Spain, there are a number of common myths about teeth; dental myths that give us mistaken information on how to take care of our teeth and gums. In this post, we explain six known oral health myths, so you can avoid doing things that you think are correct when in reality they can be bad for your oral health.

“Over the years I’ll lose all of my teeth”

There is a popular belief that we’re destined to hopelessly lose all of our teeth. However, this is false. The latest progress in dentistry means that the majority of oral diseases can be treated and cured, thereby avoiding the loss of teeth.

“Brushing my teeth is enough to have good oral health”

Even though proper brushing is essential, it is not enough for optimal oral health. For that, you need to have dental check-ups and occasional disinfection of your teeth and gums.

“If my mouth does not hurt, then everything is fine”

This is completely false since the majority of cavities and gum diseases do not cause pain.

“Bleeding is normal, and it’s because I press too hard when brushing my teeth”

This myth about gums is well-known and completely false! Scientifically, we know that bleeding is indicative of gum problems such as periodontitis. However, be careful! Gum disease does not always cause bleeding, which is why regular dental check-ups with a professional are recommended.

“It isn’t possible for adults and seniors to have orthodontic work”

Orthodontics correct the position of the teeth in the mouth in order to be able to chew better, brush more effectively and avoid your teeth wearing down, and as a result, they increase the lifespan of your teeth and avoid complications. That’s why putting braces on adults, seniors or the elderly is not only possible but also recommended.

“Pregnancy causes tooth loss”

Of the myths about pregnant women, this is one of the most popular. During pregnancy, the increase in hormones can lead to pregnancy gingivitis, which can make a case of periodontitis prior to pregnancy worse and is the real cause of tooth loss.

In all of the above, the most important thing for avoiding problems is definitely prevention, taking diligent care with oral hygiene and seeing a dentist every 6–12 months. If you need to have a review, do not hesitate to request your appointment here.

In Spain, there are a number of common myths about teeth; dental myths that give us mistaken information on how to take care of our teeth and gums. In this post, we explain six known oral health myths, so you can avoid doing things that you think are correct when in reality they can be bad for your oral health.

“Over the years I’ll lose all of my teeth”

There is a popular belief that we’re destined to hopelessly lose all of our teeth. However, this is false. The latest progress in dentistry means that the majority of oral diseases can be treated and cured, thereby avoiding the loss of teeth.

“Brushing my teeth is enough to have good oral health”

Even though proper brushing is essential, it is not enough for optimal oral health. For that, you need to have dental check-ups and occasional disinfection of your teeth and gums.

“If my mouth does not hurt, then everything is fine”

This is completely false since the majority of cavities and gum diseases do not cause pain.

“Bleeding is normal, and it’s because I press too hard when brushing my teeth”

This myth about gums is well-known and completely false! Scientifically, we know that bleeding is indicative of gum problems such as periodontitis. However, be careful! Gum disease does not always cause bleeding, which is why regular dental check-ups with a professional are recommended.

“It isn’t possible for adults and seniors to have orthodontic work”

Orthodontics correct the position of the teeth in the mouth in order to be able to chew better, brush more effectively and avoid your teeth wearing down, and as a result, they increase the lifespan of your teeth and avoid complications. That’s why putting braces on adults, seniors or the elderly is not only possible but also recommended.

“Pregnancy causes tooth loss”

Of the myths about pregnant women, this is one of the most popular. During pregnancy, the increase in hormones can lead to pregnancy gingivitis, which can make a case of periodontitis prior to pregnancy worse and is the real cause of tooth loss.

In all of the above, the most important thing for avoiding problems is definitely prevention, taking diligent care with oral hygiene and seeing a dentist every 6–12 months. If you need to have a review, do not hesitate to request your appointment here.

Dra. Marga Prats
Dra. Marga Prats
Dental Aesthetics and Endodontics

Specialist in Dental Aesthetics and Endodontics, trained in Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona. Meet the team of Clínica Pronova.

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