Myths and facts on oral hygiene

* Brushing your teeth several times a day harms tooth enamel

Brushing is important to prevent plaque formation and clean food debris. Usually, it is enough to brush your teeth twice a day in the correct manner, but if you have an opportunity to brush your teeth more frequently (for example, after every meal), use a soft or extra soft toothbrush. Do not use hard-bristled tooth brushes or abrasive tooth powders. Further, don’t use excessive force while brushing.

* Mouthwash stains your teeth

There are two types of mouthwash — prescriptives, those prescribed by the dentist for a special reason. These are chlorhexidine- or triclosan-based which are to be used for a limited period of time. Although they are very effective, if used for prolonged periods, they can stain the teeth or alter the taste in the mouth. The second are preventive mouthwashes such as essential-oil based ones which help penetrate the plaque biofilm, which is the root cause for all oral problems. They do not stain the teeth or alter the taste of food.

* If you have bleeding gums, do not brush your teeth

Bleeding gums is an early sign of gum disease — gingivitis. It is normally painless and most people usually ignore it. You must visit your dentist at the earliest. However, if you cannot do this, you should brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush and rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash. If left untreated over a period of time, gingivitis may progress to become periodontitis which involves the slow but steady destruction of the supporting tissues and may eventually result in tooth loss.

* It is better to have wisdom teeth removed, as they usually cause problems

Although it is true that wisdom teeth do cause problems during one’s late teens and early twenties, they are not routinely extracted. The decision to have wisdom teeth removed or saved is best left to your dentist. However, in many cases the wisdom teeth decay early as these are the last to erupt. At times, even a totally decayed tooth can be restored, and, at the same time, there are situations when a seemingly healthy tooth must be extracted.

*Tooth whitening and scaling are harmful as they damage enamel and also lead to loosening of teeth

Modern methods of teeth whitening, including laser guided procedures, have minimal harmful effects, if done under the supervision of a dental expert. Nevertheless, one must remember that teeth whitening cannot be recommended for many people, especially for those who have sensitive teeth, underdeveloped tooth tissues, as well as for pregnant and nursing women. Scaling does not lead to loosening of teeth. Rather it is the built-up dental plaque on the teeth which can lead to severe gum disease.

*There is no need to visit a dentist, if one has no visible oral problems.

You must see your dentist twice a year, even if you feel you have no oral problems. A tooth might appear healthy, but may have small pit cavities which can progress to advanced caries if not treated.