If you hear dental care tips from a friend, coworker, family member, or Facebook, you might be more likely to believe it, even if it isn’t true. Unfortunately, with thousands of dental myths in constant circulation, it can be difficult to know what to do and what to avoid when it comes to your teeth.

When the residents of Andrews, Texas, need to know the truth about dental care, they turn to Teresa Wade DDS. In addition to offering a broad range of services including preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, this family dentist has been committed to dispelling myths about teeth. Here are three dental care myths you may have believed in the past—and the truth behind them.

Myth 1: Tooth Decay Is Caused by Sugar

One of the most common myths believed by people is that tooth decay is caused by sugar. However, the fact of the matter is the oral bacteria inside your mouth emits acids and toxins as it thrives, eroding enamel and causing infections. Although bacteria feed off of simple starches and sugars, these ingredients alone cannot cause cavities.

Myth 2: You Can Remove Tartar by Brushing Harder

Since plaque can be easily whisked away by brushing, tartar cannot. Within about 48 hours of eating, plaque accumulations start to absorb minerals like calcium, hardening into cement-like tartar. Unfortunately, these accumulations cannot be removed by brushing, even if you brush more vigorously. In fact, aggressive brushing could cause additional problems like gum erosion and dental sensitivity.

Myth 3: Gum Disease Is Rare

Most people assume that gum disease is incredibly rare, but the reality is it is one of the most common ailments worldwide. In fact, the CDC reports that research has shown that nearly half of all American adults suffer from some form of gum disease.

If you need to schedule an appointment for a cleaning or more intensive dental care, contact Teresa Wade DDS. Born, raised, and trained in Texas, this family dentist has been offering superior dental care to Texans for the past 38 years. For more information about their services, visit Teresa Wade DDS online or call (432) 523-7782.