DURING MEDIEVAL TIMES, people believed they could cure a toothache by driving a nail into an oak tree. Silly, right?

Today’s Misconceptions Are Different

There are still some crazy ideas out there about teeth—ideas that have very little to do with the facts.

Have you ever fallen for one or more of these modern misconceptions? Most people have.

Misconception #1 – Cavities Are Only Caused By Sweets

Technically, cavities are caused by carbohydrates interacting with bacteria on your teeth to create acid byproducts. Carbs include sugars, but cavities can just as easily be caused by crackers, potato chips, and bread!

Misconception #2 – Children Are More Prone To Cavities Than Adults

Kids are NOT inherently more prone to decay… They’re just not as good at brushing! Teach your child thorough brushing techniques—helping them out until they’re dextrous enough to do a good solo job.

Misconception #3 – My Teeth Are Fine If I Have No Pain

Decay can eat clear through your enamel and dentin before some people feel it at all! Catching tooth decay early typically allows more of the tooth to be saved, and can spare you added discomfort and expense.

Misconception #4 – If My Gums Bleed I Should Stop Flossing

Actually, that’s a really bad idea. Bleeding gums are often the first sign of gum disease. This happens when bacterial infections inflame your gums due to a lack of efficient cleaning! Sure, floss gently if your gums are sensitive. But be thorough and extra diligent!

Misconception #5 – After Dental Work Is Done On A Tooth It’s Stronger Than Ever

Not always the case. One of the biggest risk factors for decay is having had it before. Dental crowns and fillings are awesome but not perfect. They have nooks and crannies where bacteria can hide—especially as the restorations age. The lesson to be learned? Have your teeth checked regularly to make sure all is going well.

Misconception #6 – There Are No “Best Techniques” For Flossing

Not true. There are. If you’re not sure how, take a minute to watch this video:

Remember, our greatest weapon against tooth decay is knowledge. Let us know if you have any questions about any of the ideas above, or any of your own that we haven’t covered yet.

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IT MAY BE TEMPTING TO SKIP A DENTAL checkup now and then. But remember that regular checkups and professional cleanings can actually save you time and money. Even more importantly, they can save your teeth and your health.

Here are four really good reasons to keep up with your regular dental checkups:

#1: Save Your Smile

Catching tooth decay early can save your teeth. And speaking of saving teeth, did you know the greatest cause of tooth loss in adults is gum disease? About half of adults over age 30 have some degree of gum disease. Regular dental appointments help prevent gum disease, and assist you in managing any oral health issues you may be having.

#2: Look And Feel Better

During professional cleanings, built-up tartar and calculus is removed that simply can’t be reached or removed by brushing alone. When you’re finished your smile feels truly fresh and clean. And by the way, regular cleanings can also help prevent embarrassing bad breath!

#3: Protect Your Overall Health

As many as 120 systemic diseases can be visible in your mouth. Regular checkups can reveal the signs of diseases before even you know about them.

Great dental care can also contribute to great overall health. In a study conducted at the University of California, Berkley, it was found that women who get regular dental care cut their risk of heart disease by a third. And in another study by Aetna, researchers learned that people who had regular dental care had lower healthcare cost burdens—thanks to prevention and early detection.

#4: Perhaps, Even Save Your Life

One of the most important parts of each dental visit is your oral cancer check, where your mouth is surveyed for early signs of one of the very deadliest cancers.

Questions? Always Feel Free To Ask!

If you ever have any questions about recommendations for your regular dental appointments, please ask!

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BRUSHING: IT’S THE FOUNDATION for keeping your mouth clean and healthy. In fact, it’s so basic that most people don’t think about it very much… They just do it.

If you’re brushing twice a day that’s wonderful! It makes our job (helping keep your smile beautiful and healthy) a lot easier! But all of us can be more effective with our brushing. Ask yourself these three questions:

1. Are you using the proper brush?

Your toothbrush should be small enough to reach every small corner inside your mouth, and it should have soft bristles.

2. Are you using the right techniques?

Brush with the bristles against your teeth and gum line at a 45 degree angle. Brush in small, circular strokes, imagining plaque being swept away from the gum line.

NEVER brush too hard. Think about holding your toothbrush like a paintbrush! When it comes to brushing, elbow grease won’t get you anywhere—it just flattens the bristles against your teeth where they can’t do any good. And, it can wear down your enamel more quickly.

3. Are you thorough?

It takes two full minutes to do a thorough brushing job… 30 seconds per quadrant. And, don’t forget these frequently ignored spots:

• inner side of your front teeth
• your tongue
• inner side of back molars, next to your tongue

Watch This Helpful Video & View These Guidelines

The American Dental Hygienists’ Association has produced a quick-reference guide.

Ready To Take It To The Next Level?

If you feel like you have the basics covered, try these tips:

• Brush without toothpaste. It makes you more aware of where you do and do not brush.
• Try a plaque-disclosing tablet or rinse. Usually made for kids, these products color the plaque on your teeth so you can really see your progress.
• Most people follow the exact same pattern each time they brush. Try starting in a new place every day.
• Don’t forget to floss!

Thanks for reading, and happy brushing!