Teeth are an integral part of the human body. They help you chew food, ease the digestion process and frame your entire face and facial features. Brushing your teeth, flossing, and getting regular checkups are crucial for maintaining dental health.
However, there are some dental myths that people believe in, which only worsen their dental health. Dealing with such issues without the right dental insurance can bring a significant financial strain.
In this article, we will debunk some of these myths so that you can keep your teeth healthy.
Dental Myths Debunked
1. Sugar Causes Cavities
Sugar can lead to tooth decay, but it is not the only factor. Cavities form when bacteria in your mouth break down sugars and produce acid that erodes tooth enamel. Carbohydrates from foods such as bread, pasta, and chips might also contribute to this process.
The key is to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly. Before buying medical insurance, consult your dentist to check your dental health and decide whether you need additional dental coverage.
2. Hard Brushing Means Clean Teeth
Brushing too hard can damage teeth, eroding the protective enamel layer on their surface. It can also affect the gums, causing them to bleed or recede in certain cases. Therefore, it is advisable to brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush with minimal pressure. Brushing very hard damages teeth and gums, which can lead to expensive dental treatments. To deal with such situations, dental health coverage is a must.
3. Do Not Floss Regularly
Flossing is a daily habit that usually takes a back seat because some people believe that it is not that important. Flossing removes food particles and plaque between the teeth and along the gum line, where a toothbrush cannot reach easily. Failure to floss can cause gum disease and cavities in hidden areas.
4. Tooth Loss is Genetic
Tooth loss might be genetic in some cases; however, it can also result from negligence. It usually occurs due to cavities, which can be avoided with proper dental hygiene. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, routine dental visits and preventative dental care will give you whiter teeth for a lifetime. If needed, buy health insurance that will cover your oral care needs.
5. No Need for Regular Dental Visits
Everyone should visit the dentist twice a year. However, if you have a history of cavities, genetic tooth loss or other oral problems, make sure to visit your dentist on a regular basis. Moreover, it is best to get dental insurance plans; this way, you can take care of your dental health without much expense.
6. Chewing Gum is Bad
Nothing can replace brushing and regular dental hygiene. However, chewing sugar-free gum can help increase saliva production and bacteria displacement in the mouth and freshen up your mouth.
7. No Special Dental Care for Diabetics
Most people do not know that diabetes and dental health are linked to each other. The cause of gum disease may be detected as issues with blood sugar levels. People with diabetes need to obtain specific oral care from a qualified dentist. Choose a plan that will provide the right dental health coverage for your needs.
8. Teeth Whitening Erodes Enamel
Many people believe teeth whitening can be the reason for erosion of the enamel. However, choosing professional teeth whitening done by a dentist, the treatment is effective and safe.
9. Avoid Dentist Visit During Pregnancy
Dental care is necessary even during pregnancy. With the consultation of your gynaecologist and dentist, you can know if your dental health is good. It is known that during pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through several physical and hormonal changes. A dentist visit can help you know if it does not affect your teeth negatively.
10. Whiter Teeth Are Healthier
Though whiter teeth are necessary, they do not mean you have good dental health. Your teeth may be whiter, but they are still damaged or decayed. It is important to see a dentist on a routine basis for checkups, even when the teeth appear whiter and stronger.
11. Gum Diseases Happen With Age
Though gum disease is common when you become old, it is not a normal part of the ageing process. Gum disease occurs due to bacteria in the mouth and can be avoided with good dental hygiene habits such as brushing, flossing, and regular checkups with the dentist.
Summing Up
By knowing the irrelevant dental myths, you can now protect your dental health in a better way. However, busting these myths is not enough. You need to safeguard your oral health with the right dental health coverage. Even in the face of a dental emergency, you get the best treatment without worrying about finances.