Oral health is vital to our overall health. Therefore, it is important that we understand the myths vs. facts about our teeth in order to keep everything working properly.

After each statement see if you can guess if it is a MYTH or FACT.

Hard toothbrushes are better than soft toothbrushes.

MYTH

Using a toothbrush with hard bristles can cause a great deal of unnecessary wear on your gum tissues. Using a soft toothbrush the right way is the better option.

If your toothbrush bristles are fraying it’s time for a new one.

FACT

Frayed bristles can harm the gums and be less effective in cleaning the teeth

Fluoride in our water is the #1 most cost effective way to prevent tooth decay.

FACT

Fluoride not only helps prevent cavities and slows the growth of decay, but it can also reverse decay in its early stages.

Only use a whitening toothpaste.

MYTH

We find those patients that use a great deal of the whitening toothpastes can have more tooth sensitivity. Stick with a basic toothpaste that has the American Dental Association seal of approval.

Baby teeth are not important because you have another set coming.

MYTH

Baby teeth serve an important function of helping growing children chew food as well as create the needed space for the permanent tooth ready to erupt.

Putting an aspirin next to a tooth that has a toothache can help.

MYTH

Aspirin placed on the gums next to the tooth can actually burn the gum tissue.

Brushing is bad for bleeding gums.

MYTH

When your gums are bleeding it is a sign that plaque and food debris is hiding along your gum line. The only way to start the healing process is to remove these irritants with good brushing and flossing.

It is ok to drink diet soda because it does not have sugar.

MYTH

Diet sodas are very acidic and can erode the enamel of your teeth. This weakened enamel now puts the tooth at more risk for decay.

Smoking cigarettes only discolor the teeth.

MYTH

Smokers have more tooth decay, gum problems and potential for more oral cancer than non-smokers.

Smokeless tobacco is safer than smoking because fumes are not inhaled.

MYTH

Chewing tobacco puts you at greater risk for oral cancers.

One in five children aged six to eleven suffers from tooth decay in their permanent teeth

FACT

Establishing a dental home for your child is a great first step towards a healthy mouth.

A child should wear a mouth protector while participating in any activity with a risk of falls, collisions or contact with hard surfaces or equipment.

FACT

A properly fitted mouth guard not only protects the teeth but may help reduce the force of blows that cause other injuries.

A healthy mouth is attractive and can help with a positive self-image.

FACT

It is easier to smile than frown. Scientists have discovered that the body has to work harder and use more muscles to frown than smile.