5 Common Dental Myths

Dental procedures can indeed be intimidating for many. Approximately 12 percent of adults in the U.S. admit to feeling anxious about dental visits, so if the idea of sitting in a dentist's chair makes you uneasy, you're in good company [source: Sohn]. For some, the fear is so overwhelming that they avoid the dentist altogether: A Surgeon General's report reveals that 4.3 percent of Americans are too frightened to visit the dentist [source: Department of Health and Human Services].

Given the unnecessary stress and anxiety surrounding dental care, it's no wonder numerous myths have emerged over time to justify or ease our dental concerns. Often, we cling to these myths instead of seeking the truth, and over time, they become so deeply rooted in our culture that distinguishing fact from fiction becomes challenging.

However, misinformation about dental health can be detrimental. In this article, we'll uncover the reality behind five widespread dental myths, some of which you might have believed at one point.

5: Bleaching Weakens Teeth

Everyone desires a brighter smile, and sometimes brushing and flossing alone aren't enough. Fortunately, there are numerous whitening products, such as gels, pastes, and strips, available over the counter or from dentists, designed to enhance the appearance of our teeth.

However, some individuals fear that teeth bleaching products might harm or weaken their teeth. Is there any truth to this concern? Not really. When used as directed, bleaching products are generally safe. They only alter the color of the teeth, not their structural integrity or health [source: Today Health]. Bleaching removes some of the teeth's pigmentation, and overuse can make teeth appear translucent due to excessive pigment loss [source: Johnston]. This translucency might be mistaken for enamel weakening, but it's merely a cosmetic change.

Over-bleaching can lead to temporary tooth sensitivity and gum irritation, but there's no evidence to suggest that bleaching weakens teeth [source: Today Health].

4: Brushing's Bad for Bleeding Gums

At first glance, this myth might seem logical — if your gums are bleeding, it would appear sensible to avoid brushing until they heal. However, the reality is quite the opposite. Bleeding gums are often a sign that plaque and food debris have built up along the gum line, causing irritation and inflammation. Brushing is essential to remove this buildup and stop the bleeding [source: Dillon]. Additionally, gums may bleed if you floss aggressively or if you're flossing for the first time in a while, as your gums may not be accustomed to it [source: WebMD].

The solution is to brush and floss regularly and with care. Dentists advise positioning your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth, with the bristles directed toward your gums. This technique effectively removes plaque from the gum line [source: American Dental Association]. When flossing, avoid forcing the floss between teeth; instead, gently glide it back and forth, following the tooth's curvature, until it slips into place [source: WebMD]. While it may take time, consistent and gentle care will reduce bleeding and soreness. If the issue persists, it could indicate a more serious condition, and you should consult your dentist [source: Dillon].

3: Bad Breath Means You're a Bad Brusher

In reality, bad breath can stem from various causes, with poor dental hygiene being just one of them. The foods you consume play a significant role — a meal heavy with garlic and onions will inevitably leave your breath unpleasant, regardless of how thoroughly you brush and floss. Additionally, illnesses like pneumonia can also cause bad breath, making it more than just a hygiene issue. So, before judging someone with foul breath, consider that it might not be their fault!

What about your own breath? If you adhere to the dentist's advice of brushing and flossing at least twice daily and scheduling biannual checkups, you can be confident that your bad breath isn't due to poor dental hygiene. However, if you're still concerned about stinky breath, consult your dentist. They can identify whether the odor is related to dental hygiene or another underlying cause [source: WebMD].

2: The More Sugar you Eat, the Worse for your Teeth

You're about to indulge in something sweet, like sticky taffy or a rich chocolate bar, when a voice in your head warns, "Eating that will make your teeth rot!" Sound familiar? Many of us grew up hearing that excessive sugar consumption leads to tooth decay. However, the quantity of sugar you consume isn't the sole factor in dental health.

The bacteria in your mouth thrive on carbohydrates, such as sugar, and generate acid that erodes tooth enamel. The longer sugar remains in your mouth, the more time bacteria have to feed and produce acid, increasing the risk of enamel damage [source: Fries]. Essentially, the issue isn't the quantity of sugar consumed but how long it stays in contact with your teeth [source: ScienceDaily].

This implies that consuming three candy bars and brushing immediately afterward is less damaging to your teeth than eating one candy bar without brushing. Candies that dissolve slowly, like lollipops, and sipping sugary beverages throughout the day are particularly harmful, as they prolong sugar exposure to your teeth.

The lesson here is clear: indulge in sweets, but always brush your teeth afterward!

1: An Aspirin Directly on a Tooth Will Relieve Pain

This is a long-standing home remedy, but it's entirely incorrect — never place aspirin directly on or near a painful tooth. After all, you wouldn't apply aspirin to your forehead for a headache, would you?

The only safe and effective method to consume aspirin is by swallowing it. When ingested, aspirin is absorbed through the digestive tract, enters the bloodstream, and circulates throughout the body. It works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, molecules that transmit pain signals from the affected area to the brain. Once the aspirin reaches the painful tooth, it reduces prostaglandin production, alleviating the pain [source: National Institutes of Health]. While it might seem convenient to apply aspirin directly to the tooth, this method is ineffective.

Here's another reason to dismiss this ineffective remedy: placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gums can cause acidic chemical burns to the gums and lips. Not only will you still have a toothache, but you'll also endure additional pain from the sores left by the aspirin [source: Fries].