Dental Myths and Facts When it comes to oral health, there's a lot of misinformation out there. From old wives' tales to social media trends, it can be hard to know what's true and what's just a myth. Can you really skip flossing if you brush well? Does sugar directly cause cavities? At Wildhorse Dental we are here to debunk common dental myths and reveal the facts so that our patients can take the best care of their teeth and gums. Myth: If You're Not Experiencing Any Pain or Problems, You Don't Need to See the DentistRegular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining good oral health, even if you are not experiencing any concerns. Dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer may not always cause noticeable symptoms in their early stages. Even if you don't currently experience discomfort, visiting the dentist every six months can help prevent problems from arising in the future and ensure that any potential issues are caught early. Myth: Cavities Will Go Away on Their OwnIn dentistry, a cavity refers to a hole or structural damage in a tooth caused by tooth decay. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that eat away at the tooth's enamel, forming a cavity. If left untreated, dental cavities can progress deeper into the tooth, affecting the inner layers and potentially leading to infections and more serious dental problems. It is important if you think you have a cavity to make an appointment with the dentist right away. Signs of a dental cavity include tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, persistent tooth pain, and visible holes or dark spots on the tooth. You may also experience pain when biting down or notice rough edges on the affected tooth. In some cases, cavities can cause bad breath or swelling in the gums around the tooth. Myth: It is Normal for Gums to Bleed After Brushing or FlossingBleeding gums are not normal and may indicate the presence of gum disease or other oral health issues. It's essential to pay attention to any changes in your gum health and see the dentist if you experience bleeding, swelling, or tenderness. Myth: You Don't Need a Dental Checkup If You Have BracesMaintaining regular dental check-ups is even more essential when you have braces. Your dentist will monitor the progress of the orthodontic treatment. They will track the movement of your teeth and make adjustments to your braces as needed to ensure optimal results. Braces can make it more challenging to clean your teeth thoroughly, leading to an increased risk of plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. Regular dental check-ups allow the dentist to assess your oral hygiene practices, identify any areas of concern, and provide guidance on improving your oral care routine. Come See Us if You Have More Dental QuestionsAt Wildhorse Dental we are always available to answer our patient's questions. We want to partner with you to ensure you have great oral health. If you are due for a dental exam, or if you have any oral health concerns, be sure to call us at 636-537-0447 to schedule an appointment. |
Office HoursMonday: 8:00am-5:00pm Tuesday: 7:30am-4:00pm Wednesday: 7:30am-4:00pm Thursday: 7:30am-3:00pm Fri‑Sun: Closed |
