3 Dental Myths That Are Simply Not True
Posted on: 8 August 2019
In any field, there are always myths that go around that many people will believe, and this is true in dentistry too. Believing dental myths can lead you astray when it comes to the way you care for your teeth, and that is why it is important to understand the truth about these things.
Here are three common dental myths you might believe that are not true.
Dental myth 1: Flossing is optional
If you have ever heard that flossing is optional, you have experienced a true dental myth firsthand. Flossing is actually a habit that you should perform on a daily basis, as it offers a great way to clean areas that your toothbrush simply cannot access. While flossing serves a different role than brushing, both brushing and flossing are important habits for your oral health. To get the most out of flossing, perform it before you go to bed each night right after you brush your teeth.
Dental myth 2: You should cut back on flossing and brushing if your gums are red and sore
Secondly, some people believe that if they are experiencing redness and soreness with their gums, they should cut back on brushing, as they assume that their brushing habits caused this problem to develop. The truth is that when your gums become inflamed and are red and sore, it is actually a sign of gum disease, and it might indicate that you are not brushing your teeth enough. If you have these issues, you should visit a dentist to find out if you have gum disease so that you can receive the right treatment for it. Failing to get the right treatment will cause it to worsen.
Dental myth 3: Hard-bristled brushes and aggressive brushing cleans teeth better
The other myth you may have heard is that it is best to use a hard-bristled toothbrush when cleaning your teeth and brush aggressively as this will help clean your teeth better. In fact, if you are using a hard-bristled brush, you will likely be causing more damage than good. Instead, it is better to use a soft brush for your teeth and to brush them gently with just a small amount of force.
If you have ever believed any of these myths, you should understand that they are not true. To learn more, contact a dental clinic in your city to schedule an appointment with a dentist.
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