5 Dangerous Oral Hygiene Myths

The anxiety that many people feel about seeing a dentist has led to the circulation of more than a few myths, many of which can pose a threat to your oral health if taken at face value.

1. If Teeth are White they’re Healthy

While having whiter teeth can be a general indicator of good oral health, it isn’t enough to diagnose specific problems.

A tooth’s natural colour varies from person to person, and someone with darker teeth could be perfectly healthy while someone with lighter teeth may not be.

Teeth can also become more discoloured as you age, or can be stained by coffee or red wine. Likewise, teeth may have infections or cavities in between the teeth or towards the back of the mouth where they aren’t immediately visible.

2. Putting Aspirin in Your Mouth will Cure a Toothache

While aspirin can help to alleviate the pain of a toothache, it only works when it’s absorbed into the bloodstream. If placed in the mouth, the aspirin has no way to get through the tooth to the affected nerve, and can also lead to burns on the soft tissue in your mouth.

3. It’s Okay not to Floss

While brushing is the most important part of oral hygiene, flossing is also essential to maintaining a healthy mouth. You leave about a third of your teeth’s surface uncleaned if you don’t floss, which can leave your teeth vulnerable to decay and gum disease, as well as leaving you with bad breath and toothaches.

4. Tooth Decay is Only Caused by Sugar

While eating too much sugar can lead to tooth decay, it isn’t the only cause. The bacteria that cause tooth decay need sugar to survive, but consuming too much acidic food and beverages can also damage your teeth, while having poor oral hygiene will leave you more prone to problems like tooth decay and gum disease.

5. You Should Stop Brushing if your Gums Bleed

Bleeding gums may be unnerving, but it certainly doesn’t mean you should stop brushing. Brushing the gums and tongue can remove plaque, which helps prevent infection and gum disease. So brushing gums even when they’re bleeding can help keep them healthy. Bear in mind, however, that having bleeding gums is an early sign of gum disease, so if it’s a frequent occurrence you should see your dentist.

If you have bleeding gums, pain, discolouration or have any other concerns about your teeth, please give us a call.