The Truth Behind 5 Popular Dental Misconceptions | Wayne NE dentist

68787 dentist

Clearing up misconceptions about oral health can help improve personal oral hygiene efforts for a beautiful and healthier smile.  If you keep up with your oral hygiene regimen, dental visits are significantly easier and dental care is more manageable.

Misconception #1 – My teeth are fine if I have no pain

Tooth decay (cavities) usually doesn’t cause pain until they become very severe.  Once it gets to this stage, the amount of decay could lead to more invasive and costly treatments.  Some of the most dangerous oral disorders, such as oral cancer and gum disease, typically don’t cause pain at all.  It is important to keep up with scheduled dental appointments.  Our dentist can diagnose problems even at its earliest stages when there is no pain.

Misconception #2 – Cavities are only caused by sweets

When you eat sweets, the bacteria in your mouth start consuming it and produce acid.  This acid dissolves the enamel of the tooth, which results in tooth decay or cavities.  However, this process happens when you eat anything that is a starch or carbohydrate.  Food and snacks, such as crackers, bread, potato chips, fruit, peanut butter and pasta, have the same effect on your teeth.

Misconception #3 – If my gums bleed, I should stop flossing

Bleeding gums are often the first sign of gum disease.  This happens when bacterial infections inflame your gums due to a lack of efficient cleaning.  With regular brushing and flossing, gums will be much healthier and should rarely bleed.  However, gum inflammation can occur despite best oral hygiene habits.  In such instances, you should see improvement if you rinse with warm salt water and continue to brush and floss.

Misconception #4 – Whiter teeth are healthier teeth

Healthy teeth come in a wide range of natural shades.  Whiter teeth cannot show if there is an infection or cavity between the teeth.  Although pure white teeth do not equate to healthier teeth, our dentist in 68787 says that they should still be naturally on the whiter side.

Misconception #5 – Children are more prone to tooth decay

Tooth decay (cavities) can develop at any age.  People assume children have poor brushing habits and are more prone to tooth decay.  Cavities form when bacteria cause a loss or weakening in tooth enamel and eventually decay forms a hole in the tooth.  This is usually seen in people with poor brushing and flossing habits, regardless of age. 

Excellent oral health promotes overall good health and is definitely not a misconception.  It is important to practice good oral hygiene habits.  If you have any questions regarding your dental health, please contact our dental office in Wayne, NE.

Family 1st Dental of Wayne
Phone: (402) 375-2889
401 North Main Street
Wayne, NE 68787

Return to Blog Articles

Visit Our Wayne Dental Office

Dentist Wayne

Wayne Location

1108 W. 7th Street,
Wayne, NE 68787

(402) 375-2889

a

Our Dental News

Dentist Wayne

The Importance of Screening for Oral Cancer | Dentist Near Me

Early diagnosis is crucial when it comes to any form of cancer, and oral cancer is no exception. Regular screenings are an essential part of your oral health routine and can significantly improve the success of treatment if an issue […]

Learn More

Prevention and Treatment of Periodontal Disease | Dentist Near Me

Periodontal disease is a widespread concern that affects nearly half of adults in the United States, ranging from mild gingivitis to more advanced stages, such as periodontitis. Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to significant oral health issues, including gum […]

Learn More

The Benefits of Adding Flossing to Your Routine at Family 1st Dental – Wayne | Dentist in Wayne

If your dentist in Wayne has repeatedly told you the importance of flossing, you might be thinking, “I know, I know.” But the truth is, flossing is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to maintain both your oral […]

Learn More