In this blog we will overturn the most common dental myths and reveal the facts about dental care. Don’t believe all you hear or read – many patients have misconceptions about dental care, or are even given wrong advice from their GP!

1. Whitening your teeth is bad for them

While whitening your teeth can dehydrate the tooth’s enamel slightly, it will not weaken your teeth or cause cavities or other issues. The most common after effect from tooth whitening is some sensitivity, which disappears gradually in the days that follow. Bleaching your teeth can slightly dehydrate or demineralise the enamel, however sensitive toothpaste and tooth mousse will restore that almost immediately.

2. Brushing is bad for bleeding gums

This could not be further from the truth! If your gums are bleeding, you need to pay them extra attention. Massage your gum line in soft, small circular motions to help heal the inflammation. If you stop brushing gums that bleed, the problem will only get worse.

3. Medication fixes a toothache

So you’ve had a toothache but it seems to be better after some nurofen, therefore it doesn’t need treatment, right? Wrong. Pain relievers such as panadol, nurofen or numbing mouthwashes can only mask the symptoms of dental pain. The underlying cause still remains.

4. All wisdom teeth need extracting

Some patients have healthy wisdom teeth that can remain in their mouths forever! However, impacted, decayed or painful wisdom teeth may need extraction. It varies from patient to patient.

5. Mouthwash replaces flossing and or brushing

Many television commercials and mouthwash brands would like you to believe that rinsing with mouthwash is the integral part of your oral hygiene routine. It’s not. While mouthwash can help prolong fresh breath and kill bacteria, it is nowhere near as important as brushing and flossing.

For any further information make an appointment to see one of our dentists today!