Four Dental Myths Which Are Hurting Our Teeth

A WHO report says that between 60–90 percent school going children and almost 100 percent adults suffer from teeth problem, globally.

Now, when we know that a large number of people suffer from this issue, we must think and know how to take care of our teeth.

Discussing some common myths about teeth, Dr. Gerry Curatola, founder of Rejuvenation Dentistry in New York City, has some suggestions:

#1 Myth – Sugar is the root problem of tooth decay

We have always heard that sugar is bad for health and worst for teeth. But wait, this is not completely true.

Dr. Curatola explains “sugars can be classified into two parts, bad sugar, and good sugar. Bad sugar causes bad bugs (harmful for teeth) while the good sugar causes good bugs (non-harmful). Bad Bugs are formed when a person digests Carbohydrate. These bad bugs produce acids, which after mixing with saliva, forms plaque.

#2 Myth – Teeth Whitening Damages Enamel

Teeth whitening basically contains hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, whose main aim to clean the stains on the surface of enamel. So, originally it doesn’t affect your teeth.

But, Teeth Whitening can cause sensitivity problem in teeth. So, it is advised to not to go for teeth whitening frequently.

#3 Myth – Silver Fillings Are Permanent

Dr. Curatola explains that most people don’t know that these silver fillings actually contain Mercury, which with time starts breaking and mixing with food. Inhaling even a drop of Mercury is unhealthy, so it is advised to give a regular checkup and if necessary change the fillings.

#4 Myth – Mouthwash with Alcohol is a Good Practice

“No, it’s not. Mouthwash shouldn’t contain alcohols at all.”, Dr. Curatola said.

A study which was made in the 1970s, revealed that mouth washing with alcohol might help. But contradicting the study, it’s been said that alcohol mouthwash may lead to several other oral problems.