7 Dental Myths You Should Know
Dental care and needs are often overlooked. People seem to give more focus on their other body parts than their teeth and gums. This fact is evident in common health insurance plans nowadays. Most of the policies give much attention on health coverage other than dental care. Also, it is apparent in the practices of many homes today. One instance is the less attention most families give to the children’s dental health. This is perhaps due to the fact that these teeth eventually fall out in time and a new set of teeth will grow after then.
Nevertheless, we never think that these are just myths or ill practices. We firmly believe and religiously follow them without having our dentist validate them. Here are some more of these common dental myths.
1. Acidic food causes tooth decay.
The truth is – acidic foods do not cause cavities. Such type of food initially tears down the enamel and ultimately causes the teeth to weaken. Since the underlying dentin of the teeth gets exposed after the outer protection or enamel is torn down.
2. Aspirin intake can help ease toothache.
According to dental specialists, aspirin intake can truly reduce toothache. However, the medicine should be swallowed and not taken in beside the tooth. This is due to the fact that aspirin can burn the gum tissues if placed beside the tooth. Not swallowing the aspirin can even trigger abscesses that can trigger more pain.
3. Cavities among babies are not serious.
Many people believe that cavities in babies need not to be taken care of. This is perhaps due to the fact that baby teeth are later replaced by permanent teeth. However, this is just a myth. If cavities are not treated, they can cause pain and abscesses. The untreated cavities can even worsen up to the extent of spreading throughout the body and causing serious ailments. In rare cases, it can even cause death.
4. Children get more cavities than adults.
Cavities cause problems regardless of the age. It can even cause more problems if left untreated or unattended. So whether you are young or not, you may experience dental problems if you do not practice good oral hygiene.
5. Sensitive teeth are caused by decay.
There are times that the teeth get sensitive when the root canal gets exposed due to cracks and decay. Yet, this is not the only reason for teeth sensitivity. Sometimes pain or sensitivity is simply due to the hypersensitive nature of the teeth.
6. Sugar is the major reason for cavities.
According to the dentists, the acid created by the bacteria in the mouth is the main reason for cavities. Such bacteria produce acids after intake of carbohydrate-rich food. As the metabolism of carbohydrates and bacteria-produced acids persist, the cavities in the mouth worsen.
7. Regular visits are necessary only when the dental health is poor.
Regular visits to the dentist are necessary even if you believe that your dental health is in good condition. Since not all dental problems are easily identified. Sometimes, cavities start without us knowing them. The only times we feel the pain caused by cavities are situations when the tooth decay has already advanced or the damage has already reached the nerves.