The Truth Behind 5 Popular Dental Misconceptions | Dentist in Hickman NE

68372 dentist

Clearing up misconceptions about oral health can help improve personal oral hygiene efforts for a beautiful and healthier smile.  If you keep up with your oral hygiene regimen, dental visits are significantly easier and dental care is more manageable. 

Misconception #1 – My teeth are fine if I have no pain

Tooth decay (cavities) usually doesn’t cause pain until they become very severe.  Once it gets to this stage, the amount of decay could lead to more invasive and costly treatments.  Some of the most dangerous oral disorders, such as oral cancer and gum disease, typically don’t cause pain at all.  It is important to keep up with scheduled dental appointments. Our dentist in 68372 can diagnose problems even at its earliest stages when there is no pain.

Misconception #2 – Cavities are only caused by sweets

When you eat sweets, the bacteria in your mouth start consuming it and produce acid.  This acid dissolves the enamel of the tooth, which results in tooth decay or cavities.  However, this process happens when you eat anything that is a starch or carbohydrate.  Food and snacks, such as crackers, bread, potato chips, fruit, peanut butter and pasta, have the same effect on your teeth.

Misconception #3 – If my gums bleed, I should stop flossing

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.  With regular brushing and flossing, gums will be much healthier and should rarely bleed.  However, gum inflammation can occur despite best oral hygiene habits.  In such instances, you should see improvement if you rinse with warm salt water and continue to brush and floss.

Misconception #4 – Whiter teeth are healthier teeth

Healthy teeth come in a wide range of natural shades.  Whiter teeth cannot show if there is an infection or cavity between the teeth.  Although pure white teeth do not equate to healthier teeth, they should still be naturally on the whiter side. 

Misconception #5 – Children are more prone to tooth decay

Tooth decay (cavities) can develop at any age.  People assume children have poor brushing habits and are more prone to tooth decay.  Cavities form when bacteria cause a loss or weakening in tooth enamel and eventually decay forms a hole in the tooth.  This is usually seen in people with poor brushing and flossing habits, regardless of age.  
Excellent oral health promotes overall good health and is definitely not a misconception.  It is important to practice good oral hygiene habits.  If you have any questions regarding your dental health, please contact our dental office in Hickman, NE.

Family 1st Dental of Hickman
Phone: (402) 792-3000
650 Chestnut Street, Suite 2
Hickman, NE 68372

Return to Blog Articles

Visit Our Hickman Dental Office

Dentist Hickman

Hickman Location

650 Chestnut - Suite 2,
Hickman, NE 68372

(402) 792-3000

Family First Dental - Dr. Rachel Tiejten

Our Dental News

Dentist Hickman

I Chipped a Tooth! What Can I Do? | Dentist in Hickman NE

It often happens unexpectedly. You’re enjoying your favorite crunchy snack when suddenly you feel something off or an unfamiliar piece in your mouth that doesn’t dissolve. A quick check reveals it’s a chipped piece of your tooth. While enamel is […]

Learn More

How Long Does a Temporary Crown Last? Insights from Family 1st Dental – Hickman | Dentist Near Me

Periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease, is a severe oral health condition that can damage the tissues supporting your teeth. This progressive disease starts with a buildup of plaque and bacteria on your gums and teeth, leading to […]

Learn More

Protect Your Smile: Spotting the Warning Signs of Gum Disease | Dentist Near Me

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a significant threat to your oral health. This condition affects the tissues that support your teeth, and if left untreated, it can lead to serious complications like tooth loss. The primary cause […]

Learn More