We've all heard the myths: "diet pop is better for your teeth than regular pop", "drinking milk will give you whiter teeth,” and so on. But which of the multitude of myths out there are true myths, and which ones are actually based in reality?
Myth: In order to clean my teeth well, I need to use a hard toothbrush to ensure I get everything.
Truth: A soft toothbrush is actually your better bet for keeping your teeth healthy and strong. By using a hard toothbrush, you are risking the loss of enamel, and pressure on the gums.
Myth: Diet pop is better for your teeth because it does not have any sugar in it.
Truth: Due to the highly acidic content found in diet pop, it is actually very bad for your teeth, causing breaks and weaknesses in the enamel, which is your mouth’s first line of defense against cavities.
Myth: Both my mom and dad lost their teeth during middle age. That means that regardless of what I do, I am going to lose mine as well.
Truth: While genes do play a factor in oral health, you are still in control. By making sure that you are taking proper care of your mouth, you are able to take back control of your oral health. Always remember to brush, floss, eat a good diet, and visit your dentist for regular checkups.
Myth: Drinking milk will make my teeth whiter.
Truth: While drinking milk has its benefits, one being that it will make your teeth stronger, drinking milk on its own will not make your teeth whiter. The best way to do that is to have regular dental checkups and cleanings, brush well and regularly, and floss on a daily basis.
Myth: While pregnant you should not get any kind of dental work done.
Truth: Getting dental work done is important to your pregnancy. Oral health is a big factor leading to premature birth and other complications. While there might be a surgical procedure that your dentist wants to hold off on, the majority of dental work generally needed is safe during pregnancy. As long as your dentist is aware that you are pregnant, you should be fine.
Good oral health is necessary for good overall health. Maintaining a healthy diet, brushing and flossing regularly, and getting your regular checkups will help to ensure your good dental health. Your dentist is also a great resource for helping to debunk more of the many myths out there regarding dental health and oral care. Call Carlingwood Dental Centre for more information.
