By EKalman February 23, 2022 - 1:03am

There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about oral hygiene and dental treatments. But it is important to understand that improper oral care can lead to the development of severe complications. That's why you need to distinguish between the myths and facts. In this article, we have gathered seven common oral health myths that should be debunked ASAP.

1. You can brush your teeth only once a day
Indeed, it is better to brush your teeth at least once a day than rather not brush at all. But you should understand the bacteria in your oral cavity multiply all the time and if you don't remove them in the morning and in the evening, they can promote the development of many oral issues. In addition to brushing your teeth twice a day, you should also use dental floss daily.

2. Bleeding gums are normal
Many people think that gum bleeding that occurs during toothbrushing or on its own is completely normal and doesn't manifest any problems. But the reality is that gum bleeding is one of the most common signs of gum disease. This condition occurs because of bacteria overgrowth that leads to gum inflammation. If you have noticed that your gums are bleeding, it is better to make an appointment with your dentist to examine your oral cavity.

3. You need to brush your teeth right after eating
It may seem logical that it is better to brush your teeth right after meals to remove the food particles and prevent bacteria overgrowth. However, acids in foods and drinks can soften your tooth enamel. So if you start brushing your teeth right after eating, you can easily remove this softened layer of your tooth enamel. That's why it is recommended to delay tooth brushing for at least 30 minutes after eating.

4. Tooth decay can be treated at home
Some people believe that certain home remedies and pastes can help treat tooth decay and even seal a cavity. But the reality is that these methods can only help ease a toothache. If you have a cavity, you need to contact a dentist and get a dental filling rather than using home remedies that can actually worsen your condition.

5. Cavities are the only cause of toothache
If you experience a toothache, the first thought that comes to your mind is that you have a cavity. However, there are a lot of oral issues that can also make your teeth hurt. The most common of them include dental abscess, gum recession, tooth fracture, enamel erosion, wisdom tooth eruption, and loose dental fillings. In any case, you need to visit the dentist to define the exact cause of your toothache and undergo proper treatment.

6. Teeth whitening ruins your teeth
One of the most common myths about whitening is that this procedure can ruin your tooth enamel. Many years ago, dentists used aggressive chemicals to bleach teeth. But today, bleaching agents are completely safe. Indeed, you can experience mild teeth sensitivity for a few days after this whitening procedure but it usually disappears on its own.

7. You need to brush your teeth hard
Some people think that the harder they brush their teeth, the cleaner they are. But aggressive tooth brushing and using a toothbrush with stiff bristles can actually scratch and even remove your tooth enamel. This can result in tooth sensitivity, yellowish teeth, chipped tooth enamel, and gum recession. That's why it is better to brush your teeth thoroughly but not hard. It is also recommended to use a toothbrush with soft bristles.