Common Dental Myths You Should Stop Believing

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Many people grow up hearing advice about teeth and oral care from family,
friends or the internet. While some are helpful, others could be based on
myths that may inadvertently harm your dental health. Let’s clear up some
of the most common misunderstandings :

*Myth 1: If your gums bleed, you should stop brushing*
Bleeding gums are often a sign of inflammation or early gum disease, and
not a reason to avoid brushing. In fact, gentle regular brushing and
flossing may often help remove the plaque that causes gum irritation and
bleeding in the first place.

*Myth 2: Sugar is the only cause of cavities*
Sugar does play a role, but cavities are caused by bacteria that produce
acid by breaking down carbohydrates. This means food like bread, chips or
even fruit can contribute to tooth decay if proper oral hygiene
isn’t maintained.

*Myth 3: Hard brushing cleans teeth better*
Brushing too hard can strip away the enamel, especially near the gumline
and also irritate the gums. A soft bristled toothbrush with the right
brushing technique helps in effective cleaning.

*Myth 4: You only need to visit the dentist when you feel pain*
By the time dental pain appears, a problem may already be advanced. Regular
check-ups help to catch small issues early on, saving time, discomfort and
treatment costs in the long run.

*Myth 5: Baby teeth don’t matter because they will fall out anyway*
Baby teeth, or primary teeth play an important role in speech development,
proper chewing, and guiding permanent teeth into the right position.
Neglecting them can lead to infections, pain, and alignment issues later on.

Understanding the truth behind these myths can help you take care of your
smile. Good oral health is about preventing them through informed daily
habits and regular dental visits, so call us on* 770-939-5122* to schedule
an appointment today with your dentist, *Dr JD Desai*!