There are many misconceptions about dental care out there. It’s important to be able to differentiate fact from fiction so that you can keep your mouth in good condition. Mark C Young, DDS, a dentist in Charlottesville, VA, shares some of the most common myths about oral health care below.

3 Dental Care Myths You Should Know

1. There’s No Problem If Your Teeth Don’t Hurt

Many people believe that their teeth are perfectly healthy as long as they don’t hurt. However, many oral health issues aren’t painful in the beginning. For example, cavities only start hurting when they reach the nerves of the teeth. Once that happens, a root canal is typically needed to fix the problem. It’s best to see a dentist every six months for a checkup to detect possible issues as early as possible.

2. Medications Don’t Have an Impact on Your Dental Health

Unfortunately, the medicine you take might negatively affect your teeth. Certain medications, like diuretics, anti-depressants, and antihistamines are known for causing dry mouth. When your mouth doesn’t produce adequate saliva, it can’t wash away the food particles and plaque from your teeth, increasing your risk of cavities. If you take any of these medications, your dentist may suggest drinking more water, chewing sugar-free gum, and avoiding caffeine.

3. Fruits Juices Are Safe for Your Teeth

While fruit juices certainly provide many vitamins and minerals, they aren’t so good for your teeth. These juices are packed with acids and sugars that can break down the enamel of your teeth and make you more susceptible to cavities. If you want to drink juice occasionally, remember to drink water afterward to wash away the sugars.

If you ever have any trouble distinguishing fact from fiction regarding oral health, ask your dentist. Mark C Young, DDS provides high-quality dental services to patients of all ages and takes the time to create an individualized treatment plan for every patient. Whether you need a root canal or a teeth whitening treatment, he is more than happy to assist you in his comfortable office. To schedule an appointment, call (434) 979-1365 or visit his website for more information.