Confusion and bad oral health choices might result from misconceptions about dental care. Our knowledgeable staff at HPS Dental, situated in Shelby Township, Michigan, is committed to informing patients from Rochester Hills, Shelby Township, Washington Township, and other regions about the value of receiving quality dental treatment. In this post, we’ll dispel some widespread misconceptions about dentistry and provide the facts you need to decide about your oral health. Additionally, we welcome new patients, so don’t wait to make an appointment!
Myth: Brushing Harder Cleans Better
Vigorous brushing might indeed harm your gums and teeth. The most effective approach to brushing your teeth is with a soft-bristled toothbrush while using small, circular strokes and light pressure. However, brushing too vigorously can result in gum recession and enamel degradation, contributing to tooth sensitivity and other oral health problems.
Myth: You Shouldn’t Brush Bleeding Gums
Fact: To remove plaque and bacteria, it’s important to keep brushing and flossing even when your gums are bleeding. This is a symptom that you may have gingivitis or gum disease. If your gums bleed when you brush, you may need to improve your oral hygiene practices or seek a dentist’s advice. Addressing bleeding gums as soon as possible is important because delaying treatment can result in more serious oral health issues.
Myth: You Only Need to Visit the Dentist When You Have a Problem
Fact: Maintaining good oral health and avoiding dental problems require routine dental exams and cleanings. Your dentist will be able to identify and manage any possible issues early by seeing you at least twice a year, avoiding the need for later, more involved, and expensive procedures. HPS Dental suggests having dental examinations and cleanings every six months to maintain excellent oral health.
Myth: Dental X-Rays Are Unnecessary and Unsafe
Fact: Dental X-rays are a crucial diagnostic tool that aids your dentist in finding oral health problems that may not be apparent during a routine dental checkup. With today’s low radiation requirements, dental X-rays are a safe and important component of dental care. HPS Dental employs digital X-ray equipment to deliver accurate, high-quality images while limiting our patients’ radiation exposure.
Myth: Baby Teeth Don’t Matter
Baby teeth are essential for your child’s oral health and development. They support the growth of speech, healthy chewing, and the preservation of permanent tooth space. Baby teeth neglect can result in tooth damage, pain, and early tooth loss, affecting how permanent teeth line up. Therefore, it’s crucial to take good care of your child’s baby teeth and instill healthy oral hygiene practices at a young age.
Myth: Sugar Is the Only Cause of Cavities
Although sugar contributes significantly to the development of cavities, it is not the only offender. When oral bacteria produce acids that destroy tooth enamel, cavities form. Consuming carbs, including sugar, accelerates this process, as can other elements like poor dental hygiene and dry mouth. Therefore, a balanced diet, adequate dental hygiene, routine dental examinations, and dentist cleanings are all crucial for cavity prevention.
Myth: Whitening Products Damage Teeth
Fact: Professional teeth whitening procedures and over-the-counter products recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA) are mostly risk-free when used as instructed. However, using whitening solutions incorrectly or excessively can lead to gum irritation and tooth sensitivity. Therefore, before beginning any whitening procedure, it’s critical to read the product instructions and speak with your dentist. At HPS Dental, we provide teeth whitening services that are safe and meet your needs and objectives.
Myth: Placing Aspirin Directly on a Toothache Relieves Pain
Aspirin can relieve pain when taken orally, but applying it directly to a toothache might be harmful. Because aspirin is acidic, it can burn the delicate tissues of your mouth, causing further pain and discomfort. It’s best to follow the instructions on over-the-counter pain medicines if you have a toothache while also seeing your dentist to determine what’s causing it and get it fixed.
Myth: Dental Treatments Should Be Avoided During Pregnancy
It is safe and necessary for pregnant women to have routine dental treatment. Due to hormonal changes, pregnant women are more prone to gum disease and other oral health problems. Maintaining good oral health and avoiding difficulties during pregnancy can be facilitated by regular dental exams, cleanings, and appropriate treatments. Let your dentist know you’re expecting so they can take any required safety measures and offer the best dental care suggestions.
Myth: All Dental Fillings Need to Be Replaced Eventually
The lifespan of dental fillings relies on various variables, including the material used, the filling’s location, and your oral hygiene routines. Dental fillings can survive for many years with the proper maintenance. To keep your fillings in good condition, visiting your dentist frequently is essential, as they might become worn or damaged over time.
Make an appointment with HPS Dental right away.
Making decisions regarding oral health care while preserving a healthy, beautiful smile depends on dispelling common dental myths. Our knowledgeable staff at HPS Dental is dedicated to giving patients from Rochester Hills, Shelby Township, Washington Township, and other towns accurate information and top-notch dental care.
Call our office at (248) 652-0024 or visit our website to make an appointment; we are now taking new patients. Let us assist you in achieving a lifetime of attractive, healthy smiles.