People often believe things that are simply not true. These fallacies are called myths or misconceptions. One such historical myth related to dentistry was the myth that our nation’s first president, George Washington, had wooden teeth. The truth is that George Washington’s dentures were “composed of ivory, gold, lead, and even other human teeth” according to historians at the Washington Library.1
Those historians believe that President Washington’s ivory teeth, stained over time, would have given the dentures the appearance of wood. Research and fact-finding are the only sure way to dispel myths, including dental ones.
Here’s the truth about some of the most common dental and oral health misconceptions.
Myth #1: Flossing isn’t important in maintaining oral health
Research reveals that a very low percentage of Americans (between 102 to 303 percent) floss their teeth on a daily basis but about 7 out of 10 Americans brush their teeth every day. While tooth brushing is essential for maintaining good oral health, so, too is flossing.
It is only logical that a toothbrush can’t reach between teeth like flossing can. But liquids, such as sugary drinks, can seep easily between your teeth, creating areas for bacteria to grow. A five-year research study of 686 people 65 years and older, published in the Journal of Dental Research in 2020 concluded, “The extent of oral disease for older individuals was significantly less in flossers than in non-flossers (and) flossers showed less periodontal disease, fewer dental caries, and loss of teeth.”4
So, don’t forget to floss!
Myth #2: I only need to see a dentist when I have tooth pain.
The bad news is that by the time you are in pain from a tooth, significant damage has been done to the tooth. Cavities develop slowly over time. Depending on your oral hygiene, diet and other factors cavities can take anywhere from several months to years to form.5 When you only visit the dentist due to tooth pain the tooth has most likely progressed to the point where you will need a crown and/or a root canal.
Keep things in check with regular dental visits to prevent dental problems and avoid unnecessary treatments and costs.
Myth #3: There is no scientific evidence that you have to brush for two minutes, twice per day.
The two minutes, twice a day rule has the support of the American Dental Association. Most Americans underestimate the amount of time they spend brushing their teeth, so when electric toothbrushes began to come with timers, it made getting that two-minute brush easier. Some research has actually found that, “increased brushing duration is directly proportional to increase in plaque removal.”6
Set your timers and get to brushing!
Myth #4: All gums bleed
Healthy gums can bleed, but generally this occurs for very specific reasons, such as brushing too hard or flossing too vigorously or infrequently. If you find that your gums bleed frequently, it is best to consult your dentist about what may be causing gum bleeding.
Gum disease is the most frequent dental reason for bleeding gums. Gingivitis, a reversible gum disease that causes inflammation, can occur when plaque builds up along the gumline.7 Hormone changes during pregnancy and adolescent growth spurts can cause gingivitis, which if left untreated, can lead to irreversible gum disease call periodontitis.
Pay attention to your gums!
Discover Excellent Dental Care Near You
As with your general health, preventive care is the best way to ensure that issues are found and treated as early as possible for the best health outcomes. Seeing your dentist every six months ensures that problems will be detected early, causing you less pain and anxiety and actually saving you money on more expensive treatments that may be needed when problems go undetected.
If you have questions about your teeth and dental health reach out to our Commerce Twp dental office and schedule a visit, Free! Dr.Sedki provides comprehensive dental services including cosmetic dentistry, dental treatments, gum rejuvenation and more. Using the latest technology and techniques available, you’ll get the dental care you need to keep your smile healthy and looking bright!
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1 50 Well-Known “Facts” That Are Actually Just Common Myths, 6/12/2020
Link: https://bestlifeonline.com/common-myths/
2 Dental Flossing Facts & Stats by John Cretzmeyer, 11/25/2016
Link: https://dentistryfortheentirefamily.com/dental-flossing-facts/
3 How Many Americans Floss Their Teeth, by Steve Sternberg, 5/2/2016
Link: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/is-sugar-unhealthy
4Flossing Is Associated with Improved Oral Health in Older Adults by J.T. Marchesan, et. al., published 4/22/2020
Link:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7375740/#:~:text
5 How Long Does it Take for a Cavity to Form? by Eleesha Lockett, MS, 12/10/2020
Link: https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-it-takes-for-a-cavity-to-form