11 Dental Myths and Misconceptions | 209 NYC Dental

Brushing harder is counterproductive. The harder you brush, the more trauma the tooth enamel and gum tissue endure. It can eventually lead to other problems such as gum recession . Brush gently for two minutes, twice daily with a soft-bristled brush.

Flossing is an integral part of maintaining good oral health. One in five Americans never flosses , and only 40% of those who do floss daily. Flossing removes up to 80% of plaque. Plaque deposits promote tooth decay, but you can remove them with a daily flossing regimen .

Chewing gum is not a replacement for brushing your teeth. Some chewing gums can promote cleaner teeth and better breath , and some dentists even recommend the sugar-free varieties to chew on instead of candy. However, while some chewing gums serve as aids to oral health, they still don’t reach the level of being able to replace brushing your teeth.

Whiter teeth are not always healthier teeth. Teeth begin white, and over time, they can become discolored through staining or damage. Whitening teeth may leave the underlying cause of discoloration unaddressed. If your teeth are losing their luster, speak to your dentist about why.

Charcoal toothpaste is marketed for whitening but in reality, it offers little protection for teeth. Charcoal toothpaste actually works against teeth by absorbing protective agents meant to keep teeth healthy and strong.

Poor oral health early on can lead to lifelong complications. Kids should start brushing twicer per day as soon as they have teeth. Tooth decay in children can lead to health concerns long after their baby teeth are gone.

Tooth sensitivity has many causes. Enamel loss can lead to sensitivity, but so can tooth grinding (bruxism), abrasive toothpaste and more. If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, discuss these symptoms with your dentist.

The bacteria present in gum disease can spread to other parts of your body, and there are more and more studies that have connected gum disease to whole-body health concerns. Gum disease may be linked to heart disease, diabetes and some forms of cancer.

An exam is the best way to spot trouble before it starts. The longer problems go undetected or untreated, the harder they are to treat when you do start to notice them. Semi-annual dental exams for adults and kids are the best way to maintain optimal oral health — so even if you don’t notice anything amiss, it’s best to still schedule routine dental checkups.