Five Dental Myths…BUSTED!

Can you handle the truth?  Good, because we are here to set the record straight on oral health care!  There are some widely held, but false, ideas about dental health out there.  Some are silly, but some could lead to potential problems down the road. We decided to debunk five common dental myths and discuss the right way to keep your teeth clean and healthy.

Myth: The harder you brush, the cleaner your teeth will be.

Brushing your teeth regularly is important–twice a day for two minutes–however brushing harder doesn’t mean you’re brushing better.  In fact, brushing too hard with an abrasive brush or toothpaste can erode enamel and push back the gums. That’s why we recommend using a soft-bristled electric toothbrush.  

A quick refresher on proper brushing technique: move the toothbrush with short strokes and a polishing motion and use the full two minutes to make sure you’ve thoroughly and gently brushed all your teeth surfaces.  A good rule of thumb: if you’re squashing your toothbrush bristles into your teeth and gums, you’re pushing too hard.

Myth:  Tooth decay is caused mostly by sugar.

While too much sugar can lead to cavities, it isn’t the only culprit.  Starchy carbohydrates like chips and crackers are just as harmful to your teeth as candy.  These carbohydrates also have sugars which can break down the teeth. It’s even worse for your teeth when starchy snacks stick to the teeth as this creates an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive.  Follow a healthy diet where you eat lots of fruits and veggies and protein and your teeth will be happy. For more tips, see our blog post from last November for foods and drinks that can benefit your teeth!

Myth:  Gum disease is only a problem for your teeth.

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, your oral health is an important part of your overall health.  As Dr. Brunacini discussed on the blog last month, the health of your mouth can affect your body’s other systems.  Case in point, gum disease has been linked to diabetes and hypertension.  In fact, research has shown that when people with diabetes keep their blood sugar under control, their gum disease symptoms improve as well.  It’s important to have your dentist be a part of your healthcare team and come in for regular cleanings and checkups. We believe in a holistic approach to dentistry with the whole body and whole person in mind. Here’s to happy smiles and healthy bodies!

Myth:  If your gums bleed when you floss, you should leave them alone.

Bleeding is a sign of inflammation and that your gums need attention.   If you’re experiencing this symptom, come in for a checkup and cleaning.  We can help determine if you have gum disease or a more serious condition that requires more attention.  For most minor bleeding, daily flossing and proper brushing can help improve the health of your gums and the bleeding will eventually go away.  

Myth:  If you brush and floss regularly, and nothing is bothering you, then you don’t need to see the dentist.

Regular dental check-ups are an important part of oral health care.  Often dentists can help prevent problems before you have painful symptoms.  For example, if you wait until a cavity hurts, you may then need a root canal or extraction rather than a simple filling.  With regular check-ups, we can help patients maintain their good oral health, as well as screen for early signs of problems such as cavities and oral cancer.  Our mission is to build partnership with all our patients so they are connected to quality dental care and compassionate dental professionals. Let’s work together to keep you smiling and healthy!

If you need a possible dental myth busted or have questions about dental best practices, give us a call at 207.781.5900.  We’ll always give you the facts and provide the best oral health care possible!

 

*Image courtesy of www.pctechmag.com

The ABCs of Healthy Smiles: Basics of Brushing for Kids

Did you know that February is National Children’s Dental Health Month?  This month-long health observance is all about promoting the benefits of good oral health.  This year’s slogan is “Brush and clean in between to build a healthy smile.” We couldn’t agree more! We want to help you and your family start a lifetime of healthy habits and keep your kids smiling!  Along with a healthy diet and regular visits to the dentist, getting your kids to brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes is the place to start. Sometimes keeping your kids on a healthy track can be tricky, so we decided to share some of our basic brushing tips for kids.  It can be as easy as ABC!

The ABCs

Start brushing your children’s teeth when they first appear with a small, soft-bristled brush.  Both the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend using an amount of fluoride toothpaste the size of a grain of rice for children under the age of 3.  For children 3 and older, toothpaste the size of a pea is recommended. Help your children brush every tooth surface: inside, outside, and the chewing surface. For more tips and a helpful video, check out the ADA’s Mouth Healthy Website.  

Make it Fun!

Toothbrush dance party? Yes, please!  There are lots of ways to make those two minutes enjoyable.  Start by letting your child pick out their own toothbrush and toothpaste.  There are lots of bright colors and cool characters to choose from, and some yummy and even sparkly fluoride toothpaste flavors out there.  Just make sure they choose a toothbrush and toothpaste with the ADA seal of approval.

When it’s time to brush, put on a favorite song and have a mini-dance party.   Here are some fun teeth-brushing songs to check out.  You can also read a silly story with characters your child loves to encourage brushing.  Playing pretend works, too: your child is a superhero brushing away “the bad guys.” Ka-Pow! Being creative and making the task feel like a game rather than a chore helps kids keep it up.

Reward Good Brushing Behavior.

It can be helpful to think about what motivates your child and give them an opportunity to earn a reward every time they brush.  Maybe it’s as simple as giving them a high-five, or maybe they get a sticker each time. Positive reinforcement can go a long way with your children, so remember to offer lots of encouragement when they brush.  Those teeth are going to look terrific!

Make it a Family Routine.

You are your child’s best teacher and best example.  Show them how you brush and floss your teeth each day.  Bring them to the dentist with you so they get comfortable with the experience of visiting the dentist.  When your children see you have good oral health habits, they will pick it up, too!

If you have questions about your child’s oral health or need to schedule an appointment for them, give us a call at 207.781.5900.  We are here to help your family have great oral health and happy, healthy smiles!

 

*Image courtesy of www.pioneerschool.us