Despite the outstanding care that dentists provide when an issue arises with our teeth, many will agree that the best course of action to take to ensure a healthy mouth is actually preventative measures. This is an opinion we keenly uphold at Boston House, the dentists Liverpool Street locals rely on. Here are a few common myths surrounding preventative mouth care.
MYTH: Not being in any pain means I don’t need to see a dentist
This is one of the most common misconceptions surrounding dental healthcare. It is possible for decay to set in without first causing pain. So even if you aren’t experiencing any pain from your teeth, you should still attend regular check-ups so that your dentist can spot any changes and take steps to prevent issues in future, whether it’s providing diet and oral hygiene advice, or a scale and polish. The time between each visit varies from person to person depending on their age and health needs, from every 3 months to once a year. No matter what the time scale is, you should make an effort to attend.
MYTH: If my teeth are white, I don’t need to make as much of an effort with them
While it is true that yellowed teeth are an indication of poor oral hygiene, white teeth don’t necessarily mean that you have a good routine either. For maximum protection against enamel decay and gum disease, be sure to buy toothpaste or mouthwash containing fluoride, as this reduces tooth decay.
MYTH: What I put in my mouth affects just my body, not my teeth
Unfortunately, this myth has one of the biggest impacts on poor oral hygiene. The best preventative routines against tooth decay and gum problems start with your diet too. Smoking yellows the teeth and causes several health factors, such as receding gums, mouth cancers and gum disease. What’s more, high-content sugary foods produce acids which dissolve the enamel, thus exposing the tooth’s root beneath, leading to decay and long-term sensitivity.
If you aren’t sure how to discern the truth from the fiction when it comes to dental care, pop by our building – we have a dedicated team of dentists and hygienists at Liverpool Street, and periodontists at Moorgate if you require specialist help.
