Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and scheduling trips to the dentist help keep your smile healthy and beautiful. Unfortunately, many people don’t take all of these necessary steps because of common misconceptions about oral health. The guide below debunks a few myths to help you care for your mouth.

What Dental Care Myths Should You Not Believe?

1. You Only Need the Dentist When Your Teeth Hurt

Many patients wait until they experience unusual symptoms to visit their dentists. However, cavities, root canal infections, and gum disease don’t always cause discomfort.

Only dental exams accurately detect oral health problems. Professional cleanings—which dentists recommend getting twice a year—are meant to prevent these problems and keep your smile healthy.

2. Flossing Isn’t Essential

Flossing is the only way to clear plaque from hard-to-reach areas between the teeth. If food accumulates around the gum line, you can develop gingivitis.

If using floss is uncomfortable, look into dental picks and water flossers. These substitutes are highly effective and easy to use.

3. Cutting Sugar Prevents Cavities

Sugar isn’t the only cause of cavities. For example, starchy foods, like potato chips and bread, convert into sugars in the mouth. Acidic ingredients, including citrus fruits, erode enamel and make the teeth more susceptible to cavities.

Eat these foods in moderation and replace them with tooth-friendly options. Apples and celery naturally “scrub” the teeth, and dairy provides calcium to fortify enamel. The phosphorus and nutrients in spinach also have fortifying properties, and sugar-free gum encourages healthy saliva production to wash away food particles.

4. Stop Brushing & Flossing If Your Gums Bleed

If you experience slight bleeding while brushing and flossing, don’t stop the action. While bleeding can be alarming, it’s usually simply a result of plaque being removed from the gum line.

If the symptom persists, visit a dentist. Bleeding gums is an early sign of gum disease, so the dentist may need to provide professional cleaning to restore the health of your mouth.

If you’re overdue for a trip to the dentist, contact Family Dental Center. These professionals have served the Southern Ohio area since 1977. Welcoming patients of all ages, including pediatric dental needs, braces, and cosmetic dentistry. Visit their website to explore their full list of services, or call (740) 773-4066 to schedule a dental cleaning today.