Oral Health Myths vs. Truths

The team at Northfield Dental Group believes it is important for our patients to have the information they need to take excellent care of their teeth and gums. We do our best to educate patients during their dental visits, but unfortunately, there are many mistruths floating around the Internet. In this blog post, our team clears up some of the most common oral health myths to reveal the truth.

Only kids get cavities.

Cavities can develop in natural teeth at any age. Bacteria from sugars can leave a sticky film called plaque that gradually builds up on the teeth. Over time, the plaque produces acids that eat away at the tooth’s structure, causing cavities (and requiring extensive dental work). To protect your teeth from decay and cavities, brush twice a day and floss regularly. Visit your dentist at least once a year for professional check-ups.

All wisdom teeth should be removed.

As long as wisdom teeth have the space to grow into the mouth properly and do not affect the surrounding teeth, they do not need to be removed.

Bleeding gums are normal.

Gums that are red, swollen or bleed can be a sign that you have periodontal (gum) disease. If you notice that your gums bleed while brushing or flossing, schedule an evaluation with your dentist. He can confirm whether the bleeding is harmless or indicates a more serious problem. If there is a diagnosis, treatment can begin as soon as possible.

If a tooth falls out, it is lost forever.

While it may be impossible to replace the same tooth, Northfield Dental Group offers a variety of natural and long-lasting tooth replacement options. Dental implants are a popular choice because they look, feel and function like natural teeth. Dental bridges are another effective option.

Only chewing tobacco can cause oral cancer.

Cigarette smoking and “dip” or “chew” can all increase the risk of developing oral cancer. Heavy drinking also raises the risk. Oral cancer usually does not cause pain in its early stages. It is important to be mindful of changes in the mouth, including lumps, white/red patches, difficulty chewing or swallowing and difficulty moving the jaw or tongue. If you notice any problematic symptoms, schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately.

Contact Northfield Dental Group Today

For more information about your oral health and dental hygiene, or to schedule an appointment with our team, please contact Northfield Dental Group at (973) 736-0111.