Since every mouth is different, no dental treatment plan or professional oral advice is the same. But if you look for tips online, you're likely to find oral health myths that assume everyone's mouth is the same. In this post, we list some of them.

Hard-Bristled Toothbrushes and Aggressive Brushing Clean Better

Overzealous brushing can do more harm than good. And brushing right after eating can make teeth more vulnerable to erosion. Soft-bristled toothbrushes and brushing in a gentle motion can also get rid of food debris.

You can make the most of your brushing sessions by using proper techniques and taking the time to cover all teeth areas. Waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing after meals also helps to protect the enamel, especially after having acidic foods and beverages.

Sugar Is the Only Culprit for Cavities

Sugar has a long-standing reputation for causing cavities. But the truth is, sugars do not directly damage teeth, and they are not the only food types that can erode the enamel. Even starchy foods like white bread, cookies, and chips can trigger cavities.

As these food deposits cling to the teeth, harmful bacteria feed on them and produce acids that attack and thin the enamel. Acids are responsible for cavities, but your diet and oral hygiene can influence how prevalent they are.

Braces Are Only for Children and Teens

Although braces are commonly seen among children and teens, they’re not exclusively for these age groups.

Even adults can receive treatment for misaligned teeth, although it may take longer because their teeth and bones are less flexible.

Braces take effect faster while the mouth and jaw are still developing, but that does not mean you can no longer explore options to straighten your teeth as an adult.

White Teeth Are Healthy

White teeth may be appealing to some, but they don’t necessarily indicate oral health. Several uncontrollable factors, including genetics and aging, can affect the color and appearance of teeth, which are not inherently pearly white.

However, for teeth whitening treatments to be effective, teeth must be in excellent condition. Any problems, such as decay, must be addressed first. Beginning with a professional consultation will provide you with a better understanding of the options available to improve the appearance of your smile.

Baby Teeth Don’t Need Care and Attention

While baby teeth eventually become replaced with adult teeth, they still need care and attention. They save space so the adult teeth can emerge in their ideal position. They enable a child to speak and chew their food properly and comfortably.

Without proper dental hygiene, primary teeth can develop cavities, causing pain and discomfort. Don’t think baby teeth are less important because they can impact a person’s oral health until adulthood.

Flossing Isn’t Necessary

Flossing is essential for getting rid of food deposits in areas that the toothbrush cannot reach. When these deposits remain in the mouth, they can irritate and infect the gums.

Additionally, flossing helps prevent plaque and bad breath. It keeps staining particles from settling on the surfaces of the teeth and causing unpleasant odors.

You Don’t Need to See the Dentist if You Don’t Have a Dental Concern

Even if there are no obvious signs of issues or irregularities, seeing the dentist for routine examinations and checkups is crucial.

Those who are more susceptible to dental issues may need to visit the dentist more frequently. Preventative dentistry will help you require fewer dental visits, as you get to keep your oral health in good condition.

At Centennial Smiles Dental in Downtown Calgary, AB, we help patients of all ages maintain healthy smiles. We provide ongoing education and personalized dental care plans to dispel common oral health myths. Get in touch with us today to request your visit!