8 Common Misconceptions About Oral Health You Must Miss Out On
In the vast ocean of information available on the internet, it’s not uncommon to accept misconceptions dressed as truths. This also holds true when it comes to oral health. We often come across information about dental well-being, whether through reading or hearing, that may or may not be accurate but feels believable to many of us. We are here to bust some common myths to guide you in protecting yourself against misinformation and maintaining healthy teeth in a more foolproof way.
Misconception 1: Hard toothbrush is better
Truth: Brushing hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush may sound like a better approach for an effective cleaning but it is one of the most commonly accepted misconceptions. Hard brushing is directly related to enamel damage and gum recession. It is always advisable to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush your teeth in a gentle manner in circular motions.
Misconception 2: Cavities are caused only by excessive consumption of sugar
Truth: While it is true that high sugar consumption increases the risk for cavities, it is not the sole reason why we get cavities. The most common factor that leads to cavities is poor oral hygiene. To avoid cavities and tooth decay, practise post-meal rinsing and brushing.
Misconception 3: Dental floss is unnecessary if you brush your teeth regularly
Truth: Regularly brushing your teeth is essential but not an adequate practice to maintain good oral health. Flossing is strongly advised because it is imperative for cleaning the areas where plaque and food particles tend to accumulate, and brushing alone cannot access.
Misconception 4: Oral health only concerns the mouth
Truth: It is understandable if you believe that poor oral health only affects your mouth because it is a very common myth. But you ought to steer clear of this misconception and know that your oral health is directly related to your overall well being. Studies have shown that poor oral health is associated with heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues.
Misconception 5: Gum disease is rare
Truth: Gum disease is much more common than you may think. According to the statistics of World Health Organization, around 19% of the adult global population, accounting for over 1 billion cases worldwide, is estimated to be impacted by severe periodontal diseases.
Misconception 6: Chewing gum is a substitute for brushing your teeth
Truth: Chewing gum may possibly promote cleaner teeth and fresher breath, but it is not a substitute for brushing. The truth is, even gum aiding oral health cannot replace the effectiveness of brushing because it cannot possibly remove plaque buildup from your teeth.
Misconception 7: Whitening toothpaste has the potential to dramatically brighten teeth
Truth: Whitening toothpaste can help remove surface stains from your teeth, but it may not significantly change their natural colour. If you are seeking noticeable change in the appearance of your teeth, professional teeth whitening procedures are more effective.
Misconception 8: You don’t need to visit a dentist unless it’s an emergency
Truth: In the early stages, dental concerns may not necessarily exhibit noticeable symptoms. So, it is not the best approach to assume that you have healthy teeth just because they appear and feel fine. To maintain good oral health and to detect problems like gum disease, cavities, and oral cancers at an early stage, regular dental check-ups are essential.
Oral Health in India
Here are some statistics that give an overview of the burden of poor oral health in India:
- 85-90% of adults in India have dental caries, also known as tooth decay
- 43.3% of adults in India suffer from a mild gum infection called gingivitis
- 7.1% of adults in India have periodontitis
- Approximately 12.1% of the population in India exhibits signs of fluorosis which is caused by the excessive intake of fluoride
- Approximately 10 out of every 100,000 individuals in India are diagnosed with oral cancer annually
For safeguarding against unhealthy oral practices and ensuring expert dental care, we recommend Six Sigma Dentistry, which is one of the best dental clinics in Gurgaon. The clinic is led by industry experts and ensures personalized and comprehensive treatment for all your dental needs. Trust our committed team to provide accurate information, guiding you toward a healthy and vibrant smile.
If you wish to delve deeper into understanding the best tips for healthy teeth, here is an insightful guide for you.
