Friday, August 17, 2012

Dental Myths: The Dental Connection!

Myths about dentistry and general dental care abound.  Although these myths are typically inaccurate, they are passed on by word of mouth and are presented as fact.  It is said that "even a lie gains in credibility after it is has been repeated three times".  In fact, many patients that "buy in" to certain dental myths can actually place their own oral health in danger by preventing them from seeking or receiving proper dental care.  Our entire team at Thomas Family Dentistry thought that we would address some of the most common dental myths.

  • MYTH:  Since baby teeth are not permanent, they are not as important to fix.
  • FACT:   Although they are not permanent, if baby teeth are not properly maintained, it can result in early tooth loss due to tooth decay, which can result in the malpositioning of permanent teeth and the need for early orthodontic treatment relating to a bad bite and decreased ability to chew food.

  • MYTH:  It is not necessary to see a dentist if you are not having any dental problems.
  • FACT:  Most dental problems are NOT evident in early stages.  Regular exams and cleanings can check for early changes, which can allow for more conservative treatment options to be rendered. Waiting on treatment usually causes a more serious problem to develop!

  • MYTH:  Avoid brushing and flossing if your gums are bleeding.
  • FACT:  Bleeding gums are usually a warning sign of gum disease.  Proper brushing and flossing can decrease the amount of bacteria, which decreases the irritation to the gum tissue.

  • MYTH:  Chewing sugar-free gum is a good substitute for brushing.
  • FACT:   Although chewing sugar-free gum can freshen your breath between meals, dental plaque and food particles can only be thoroughly removed by brushing and flossing.

  • MYTH:  You can only get a cavity as a child during the "cavity prone years".
  • FACT:   Cavities can develop at any age.  As a patient ages: gum tissue can recede, increasing the risk for root decay; and, saliva can also both naturally decrease in the amount produced over time as well as certain medications can cause a dry mouth, increasing the risk for decay.

  • MYTH:  Once a tooth has received dental treatment, it cannot ever decay again.
  • FACT:   It is possible for other areas of the tooth to become decayed.  Although proper brushing and flossing can decrease the risk of recurrent decay, as a dental restoration ages, it can break down, which allows bacteria to become trapped inside and can result in recurrent decay at the margins or seams of the restoration.

If you have any questions concerning these myths or any other dental areas, call our dental office at 918-455-0123.

God Bless,


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