Halloween is almost here! But as a family dentist in Kitsilano, we’re less concerned with ghosts, ghouls, and goblins. It’s the dental myths lurking out there that really give us a scare.
That’s why, in this post, we’re setting the record straight on seven common misconceptions about smiles and oral health.
Myth 1: Oral Health Doesn’t Impact Overall Health
Scary Fiction: Much like Las Vegas, what happens in your mouth stays in your mouth.
The Truth: Not so fast! There’s a strong connection between oral health and overall health. According to the Canadian Dental Association, conditions like gum disease can cause health problems because the associated inflammation and unhealthy oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream. This is likely why periodontitis, the more severe form of gum disease, is linked to diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, pregnancy complications, and more. Keeping your mouth healthy isn’t just about a nice smile – it’s about taking care of your entire body.
Myth 2: Pregnant Women Shouldn’t Go to the Dentist
Scary Fiction: If you’re expecting, it’s safer to skip the dentist.
The Truth: If you’ve been wondering, “Can you go to the dentist when pregnant?,” the answer is a resounding yes! Dental care during pregnancy is important because hormonal changes can increase your risk of gum disease, which, as we said above, may be tied to pregnancy complications. While the second trimester is often the best time to go to the dentist, regular exams are considered safe at any point in the pregnancy.
A research review conducted for the BC Ministry of Health noted the highest level of evidence supports dental treatment for pregnant women to protect the mother’s dental health, reduce the salivary levels of S. mutans (a strain of cavity-causing bacteria), and reduce the risk of passing cavity-causing bacteria to the infant. Not-so fun fact: S. mutans can cause cavities in kids when it’s passed from parent to child.
Myth 3: Cavities in Baby Teeth Aren’t a Big Deal
Scary Fiction: Baby teeth don’t matter because they’re going to fall out anyway.
The Truth: The importance of baby teeth shouldn’t be overlooked. Not only do they help with chewing, smiling, and orofacial development, they’re also placeholders for healthy adult teeth to erupt. When a baby tooth is lost early because of trauma or decay, the remaining teeth have a tendency to shift into the space left behind, which can cause crowding and other alignment issues down the road.
Beyond that, a cavity in a baby tooth can cause pain, affect speech development, and lead to missed school days. If you suspect your child has a cavity, schedule a dental visit to have it looked at.
Myth 5: Flossing Isn’t Necessary if You Brush Regularly
Scary Fiction: If you brush twice a day, flossing is optional.
The Truth: Brushing alone can’t reach all the spaces between your teeth where plaque builds up. That’s why the benefits of flossing are huge – it removes plaque and food debris that can lead to cavities and gum disease.
If your gums bleed when you floss, that’s not a sign to stop flossing. It actually means your gum tissue is irritated or inflamed and you need to floss more frequently to stave off gum disease.
Myth 6: You Don’t Need a Dental Exam if You Don’t Have Oral Health Issues
Scary Fiction: If your mouth seems healthy, you don’t need to visit the dentist.
The Truth: A dental exam and cleaning every six months helps keep your oral health on track. Even if your teeth look and feel great, these routine visits are still crucial. Dentists can spot problems early – including cavities, gum disease, broken restorations, and signs of oral cancer. Additionally, you’ll receive personalized oral hygiene recommendations and learn the best way to care for your smile, setting the foundation for long-term dental health.
Myth 7: Brushing Harder Will Get Your Teeth Cleaner
Scary Fiction: Scrub those teeth like they owe you money for the best results!
The Truth: Brushing harder isn’t better – it can damage your enamel and irritate the soft tissues, leading to enamel erosion and receding gums. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle circular motions for the best clean. Brushing teeth regularly and gently, particularly when paired with daily flossing, will keep your smile bright and healthy without inadvertently causing damage.
Keep These Myths From Haunting Your Smile!
There are plenty of dental myths out there, and separating fact from scary fiction is important, because staying informed is one of the keys to maintaining excellent dental health.
Whether you have a dental emergency, you’re looking for advice on how to know if you have a cavity, or it’s simply time for your next dental exam and cleaning, our friendly family dentists in Kitsilano are here to help.
Book an appointment for yourself or your child today to keep your smile (and overall health) in top-notch shape.
Happy Halloween from the team at Kits Family Dental!
