As a local family dentist, we are asked many questions, and sometimes they come from common health myths that are circulating. Many of these myths develop out of convenience. For example, it is convenient to think that diet soda is good for your teeth if you love to drink it. The acid inside of it can lead to erosion, however, so this is one myth we are happy to debunk. Other times, these myths have simply been around forever. In either case, we can discuss oral health with you and shed light on these common misconceptions. With that in mind, here are a few myths we hear on a regular basis.
Myth – Only children get cavities.
As a family dentist, we treat both children and adults, and one thing is perfectly clear: anyone can get a cavity. It does not matter if you are a baby, child, adult, or senior, you can get a cavity. For this reason, we recommend that you brush and floss your teeth throughout the day and have your teeth professionally cleaned twice a year.
Myth – Root canals are only necessary if you have a cavity or infected tooth.
While mostly true, we also perform root canals to treat roots that have become damaged. This can happen during an accident, from nighttime grinding and clenching, or because you had too much dental work completed in quick succession. When you visit our family dentist office, it does not matter why you need a root canal, we can ensure that it will be completed quickly and comfortably.
Myth – Fillings always need to be replaced.
While it is true that fillings typically do not last forever, there is no set expiration date. If you practice good oral hygiene and eat a healthy diet, you can prolong the lifespan of your fillings and may not need to replace them. But if you do not take care of your teeth, there is a chance that decay could spread, and you will need to replace the filling with a crown. As always, preventative care is important.
Myth – Only sugar causes cavities.
Everyone has bacteria in their mouth. When you eat or drink something that contains sugar or starch, the bacteria can feed on it and create plaque. The plaque can secrete an acid that attacks the tooth, leading to decay. This makes it important to rinse your mouth with water after eating or drinking and to cut out anything particularly high in sugar, starch, or acid. Examples include candy, soda, and limes, to name a few.
Myth – Baby teeth do not matter.
All teeth have a purpose, including baby teeth. You should take the same level of care with your children's teeth as you do with your own, so they will not experience cavities and toothaches. It is also important to help the teeth remain in place until they are ready to fall out naturally. Baby teeth hold space for future adult teeth, and early tooth loss can lead to overcrowding and the need for braces.
