The Truth Behind 5 Popular Dental Misconceptions | Dentist in Hartington

68739 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 68739 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, they should still be naturally on the whiter side. Contact our dental office to learn more about our teeth whitening services.

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 Hartington, NE dental office.

Family 1st Dental – Hartington
Phone: 4022543969
304 South Robinson Ave
Harington Ave, NE 68739

Return to Blog Articles

Visit Our Hartington Dental Office

Dentist Hartington

Our Dental News

Dentist Hartington

z25YsiTNBaPob22CHBZyVfcYzd807eoikFIdolPd

Effective Solutions for Managing Bruxism in Hartington

Bruxism, commonly defined as the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, can lead to significant dental issues if left unaddressed. Family 1st Dental in Hartington understands the complexities of this condition and is well-equipped to offer effective solutions. With a […]

Learn More
z25YsiTNBaPob22CHBZyVfcYzd807eoikFIdolPd

The Role of Advanced Dental Technology in Your Care

Choosing a dental practice that prioritizes advanced technology can significantly enhance the quality of care received. At Family 1st Dental in Hartington, NE, the commitment to utilizing the latest dental advancements helps deliver treatments that are not only effective but […]

Learn More
z25YsiTNBaPob22CHBZyVfcYzd807eoikFIdolPd

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

Emergencies can happen at any time, and dental emergencies are no exception. Whether it’s a sudden toothache or an accident that results in a chipped tooth, it is crucial to know how to respond effectively. At Family 1st Dental in […]

Learn More