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Teeth cleaning is a crucial part of keeping your mouth healthy and your smile bright. Unfortunately, there are so many myths about teeth cleaning that it can be hard to know what’s true and what’s not.
In this blog, we will debunk some of the most common myths about teeth cleaning. Additionally, we will talk about a dental clinic in Eugene, OR, where you can go to see a highly experienced dentist for professional dental cleanings.
Myth 1: Brushing Harder Cleans Teeth Better
Fact: Many people think that brushing their teeth harder will clean them better, but this is not true.
Brushing your teeth too hard can actually damage both teeth and gums. It can wear away the enamel on your teeth, making them more sensitive and prone to cavities.
It can also cause your gums to recede, which can lead to gum disease. The best way to clean your teeth is to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush in gentle, circular motions.
Myth 2: You Only Need to Brush Once a Day
Fact: Some people believe that brushing their teeth once a day is enough. In reality, you should brush your teeth at least twice a day—once in the morning and once before bed.
Brushing twice a day helps remove plaque and food particles that can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. It’s also a good idea to floss once a day to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach.
Myth 3: Mouthwash Can Replace Brushing
Mouthwash can be a good addition to your oral hygiene routine, but it shouldn’t replace brushing and flossing. Mouthwash can help kill bacteria and freshen your breath, but it doesn’t remove plaque like brushing and flossing do.
Use mouthwash alongside regular teeth cleaning for the best results.
Myth 4: Sugar is the Only Cause of Cavities
Fact: While sugar is a major cause of cavities, it’s not the only one. Cavities can form when any type of carbohydrate (like bread, pasta, or fruit) is left on your teeth for too long.
Bacteria in your mouth feed on these carbohydrates and produce acid, which can erode your tooth enamel and cause cavities. That’s why it’s important to brush and floss regularly, even if you don’t eat a lot of sugary foods.
Myth 5: You Don’t Need to Visit the Dentist if Your Teeth Look and Feel Fine
Fact: Regular dental checkups are essential, even if your teeth appear and feel fine. Many dental problems, like cavities and gum disease, don’t cause pain or noticeable symptoms until they are quite advanced.
Visiting the dentist every six months can help catch these problems early, when they are easier (and less expensive) to treat. Your dentist can also remove tartar buildup, which your toothbrush can’t remove, and check for other issues like oral cancer.
Myth 6: Teeth Whitening Weakens Your Teeth
Fact: When done correctly, teeth whitening is safe and does not weaken your teeth. However, over-the-counter whitening products can be too abrasive if used incorrectly.
It’s best to talk to your dentist about the safest and most effective ways to whiten your teeth. Professional teeth whitening treatments are done under the supervision of a dentist to ensure your teeth are not damaged.
Myth 7: You Shouldn’t Brush Bleeding Gums
Fact: If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, it may be a sign of gum disease. Instead of avoiding those areas, you should continue to brush and floss them gently.
However, it’s important to see your dentist to find out the cause of the bleeding and get proper treatment.
Myth 8: You Don’t Need to Floss if You Use an Electric Toothbrush
Fact: Although electric toothbrushes are effective at cleaning the surfaces of your teeth, they cannot remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gum line.
Flossing is crucial for cleaning these hard-to-reach areas and reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. To maintain optimal oral health, you should complement your electric toothbrush use with daily flossing.
Teeth cleaning is an important part of maintaining good oral health, but there are many myths that can lead people astray. By understanding the facts, you can take better care of your teeth and gums.
Myth 9: Whitening Toothpaste Cleans Teeth Better
Fact: Whitening toothpaste can help remove surface stains, making your teeth look whiter. However, it doesn’t clean better than regular fluoride toothpaste.
For effective teeth cleaning, it’s more important to brush correctly with a fluoride toothpaste rather than relying on whitening products.
Teeth Cleaning in Eugene, OR
Understanding the truth about teeth cleaning can help you maintain a healthier mouth. Remember, gentle brushing twice a day, flossing daily, using mouthwash, and visiting your dentist regularly are all important parts of good oral hygiene.
At 360 Dental, our dedicated team of dental experts in Eugene, Oregon, is here to help you maintain optimal dental health in a comfortable and family-friendly environment. From routine teeth cleaning and exams to advanced treatments like dental implants and veneers, we cover all your dental needs.
If you would like to learn more about our professional teeth cleaning services, call us today at (541) 689-1645 or request an appointment. We look forward to serving you!
