The following are some of the more common dental myths and facts about them:
Myth No. 1. "The primary reason for brushing is to remove food debris."
Although brushing does aid the removal of food debris, its main goal is to remove plaque, the true villain in tooth decay. Plaque is a sticky, colorless layer of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth and gums. It also contributes to the cause of gum disease. Brushing and flossing at least twice a day will help prevent dental disease by removing the plaque.
Myth No. 2. "A hard toothbrush is best."
Most dentists prefer toothbrushes with soft bristles. These are less likely to injure the gums and teeth. Hard toothbrushes are more likely to cause the gums to pull away from the teeth and to abrade away tooth structure at the necks of the teeth.
Myth No. 3. "People with no cavities do not have to worry about losing their teeth."
This is not true. In adults, cavities or tooth decay is not the primary cause of tooth loss. This honor belongs to periodontal (gum) disease. Periodontal disease attacks the gums and bone that support the teeth. Over time the teeth become loose and gum abscesses develop if the disease is not treated early by your dentist. Many denture wearers can thank gum disease for their false teeth.
Myth No. 4. "I was born with soft or bad teeth."
There is an uncommon hereditary condition called Dentinogenesis Imperfecta, which causes rapid wear of the primary (baby) and permanent teeth, but in general this statement is false. Believing this myth can lead to the belief that there is nothing that can be done to prevent tooth decay and tooth loss.
Myth No. 5. "If a little toothpaste is good, a lot is better."
You can get too much of a good thing. Excessive toothpaste containing fluoride can cause fluorosis, a condition that can result in brown discoloration or severe defects in the enamel, when it is swallowed by children who still have permanent teeth developing in their jaws. Small children swallowing excessive fluoride toothpaste can suffer fluoride overdose, causing a medical emergency. Parents should supervise and help small children with their brushing; ensuring that only a pea-size portion of toothpaste is placed on the toothbrush bristles.
Myth No. 6. "Placing an aspirin on an aching tooth will relieve the pain."
This is untrue. You can take an aspirin internally to relieve a toothache, but placing it directly on the tooth will not alleviate the pain. The aspirin, acetylsalicylic acid, can actually cause a chemical burn to the surrounding tissue. When a toothache occurs, seek care from your dentists as soon as possible.
Myth No. 7. "A mother will lose a tooth for every child."
This is "myth-information." Persons believing this myth think that the unborn child absorbs calcium from the mother's teeth. As a matter of fact, calcium would be absorbed from the mother's bones, not her teeth. Because of this, the mother requires a sufficient supply of calcium. With a proper diet, daily brushing and flossing, and regular dental examinations, the mother does not have to worry about this myth.
Myth No. 8. "Baby teeth do not need to be filled, because they will come out in a few years anyway."
Baby teeth are very important. They hold the space for the permanent teeth and allow the child's face and jaws to grow properly. Healthy teeth and gums cannot be attributed to luck. They require a proper daily oral hygiene program and regular dental examinations by a dentist.
