Common Myths about Oral Health

You’ve probably heard the same advice your whole life about how to keep your teeth and gums healthy – brush and floss every day and see your dentist regularly. Along with that, you’ve probably heard common myths regarding your oral health. Some are true, and some aren’t. Here are a few myths debunked to help boost your oral health.

Tooth decay is mainly caused by sugar

Sugar definitely plays a role in the development of cavities, but they aren’t the only cause. The mouth is home to certain naturally-occurring bacteria that produce acids when combined with saliva. Along with sugars, this also happens with the consumption of carbohydrates.

Gum disease isn’t very common

Gum disease is more common than you might think, with 47 percent of adults age 30 and older being affected with it in one form or another, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As we age, our risk of infection tends to increase. This includes the risk of infection in the gums. Sixty-four percent of adults age 65 and older have moderate or severe gum disease. The best way to protect yourself from these statistics is to keep regular appointments for exams and cleanings at your dentist office and to brush and floss regularly.

Bad breath is a sign of gum disease

Bad breath is one common symptom of gum disease, but it could also be a sign of another health issue, such as acid reflux, a bowel obstruction, or some other digestive issue. The only way to be sure of the cause is by having a thorough evaluation at your dentist office. If you receive a clean bill of oral health, it may be necessary to consult your primary care physician.

It isn’t that important to take care of baby teeth since they’ll fall out anyway.

Baby teeth play a more important role in a child’s oral health than you might think. Not only do they help the permanent teeth to come in properly and safely, but they are helpful in developing your child’s oral hygiene routine. Be sure to supervise your child’s brushing and flossing habits until you are sure that they can do them properly on their own. This diligence will pay off as they age.