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There is a myriad of misconceptions around dental care, and unfortunately, they lead to many people delaying or even skipping treatment. Your oral health has a big impact on your overall health, and understanding these common myths can help you stay healthier.

Dental Care isn’t Affordable

While dental work can be expensive, it doesn’t have to be unaffordable. Preventative visits are relatively affordable and can save you from having to have more expensive care later, and even if you need a more expensive treatment, you still have options. Using a financing provider like Cherry allows you to pay for a treatment that may have otherwise been out of budget. There are payment plan options for everyone to make every dollar count. Another option is through CareCredit, where you can use the credit card to help pay for dental care and make monthly payments through special financing options.

Sugar is the Only Cause of Cavities

Sugar does cause cavities, but there are also several other factors at work. When you have a sugary food or beverage, the bacteria in your mouth break down the sugars, and they produce acid as part of the process. The acid is what eats away at your enamel, and if it is allowed to remain, it will eventually lead to tooth decay. Regularly brushing and flossing your teeth can help remove these acids before they have a chance to attack your enamel. Focusing on a diet that meets your nutritional needs will support stronger teeth.

The Harder You Brush, the Cleaner Your Teeth

It can be tempting to brush your teeth harder, thinking that will get them cleaner. However, repetitive, aggressive brushing can damage your enamel and gums, which can cause the gums to begin to recede. Bacteria can then start to accumulate in these areas, and this can lead to gum disease over time. Using a soft bristled toothbrush and circular motions while brushing can help you get your teeth clean without hurting them.

Hold it at a 45-degree angle, and brush lightly, using circular motions to clean your teeth and the gumline. Brushing for at least two minutes is a more effective way to clean your teeth than brushing too hard. After you brush, make sure to floss, at least once a day. This can remove plaque and tartar that would otherwise remain in hard-to-reach areas. Your dentist may also advise you to use a mouthwash containing fluoride as an additional preventative measure against cavities.

Dental Care is Only Needed if There is a Problem

Everyone can benefit from regular dental care, even when there aren’t problems. Regular dental care is important to help maintain your oral health. A dentist can monitor your health and note signs of disease so you can receive early treatment.

Regular cleanings can also remove tartar or plaque buildup that regular brushing and flossing alone may not get. Your dentist may recommend a few preventative treatments, such as fluoride treatments to strengthen your enamel. If you are already at a higher risk of cavities, you might receive sealants to provide an extra layer of protection.

Whitening Toothpaste is Bad for Your Teeth

Many people mistakenly believe that using whitening toothpaste too often can damage enamel on the teeth. However, today, many whitening toothpastes have gentler ingredients that are designed to remove only those stains on the surface. Even though these ingredients help polish your teeth, they don’t damage your enamel. Just make sure you choose a toothpaste that dental associations have already approved.

Whitening toothpaste generally won’t cause any harm to your teeth, but it’s still important to ensure you use it right to avoid any issues. Using it too often or incorrectly can cause the enamel to be stripped, making your teeth more sensitive over time. If you have concerns about stains on your teeth, consider talking to your dentist about an in-office whitening procedure. This can provide more dramatic results faster than using whitening treatments at home. Plus, it’s done in a controlled environment.

Only Older Adults Have to Worry About Gum Disease

It’s a common misconception that gum disease is a condition that only affects older adults. The reality is that it can affect people of all ages, even young adults and children. It’s caused by plaque buildup, which is related to improper care, not age. If plaque is allowed to remain on the teeth, it will cause the gums to become inflamed. Over time, it will progress and can eventually lead to tooth loss. The good news is that it’s easier to manage in the early stages.

Getting Dental X-Rays is Dangerous

Many people are concerned about potential radiation exposure from X-rays. The reality is that X-rays contain an extremely low amount of radiation. They’re an important diagnostic tool used to find cavities that might not yet be visible to your dentist. Following your dentist’s recommendation on X-rays can help you get early treatment.

John Mali Director of Media Relations

Director of Media Relations at AboutBoulder.com

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