I learned The Truth About Dental Hygiene

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On the JJ Barnes Blog, I learn the truth about dental hygiene myths, and how to keep my mouth healthy.

Let’s face it, dental hygiene can sometimes feel like a confusing web of information. From childhood warnings about sugar to conflicting advice about flossing, it’s easy to fall victim to dental myths. From believing that mouthwash can replace brushing to assuming that sugar is the only cause of cavities, there are a myriad of dental hygiene myths and misconceptions that can see individuals neglecting their oral health. But fear not, because I’m embarking on a myth-busting mission.

To help me out, experts at GoSmokeFree have sent over a list of popular dental myths and shed light on the real facts behind maintaining optimal dental hygiene. 

MYTH 1: Smoking only causes aesthetic damage 

More than aesthetics, smoking increases your chance of developing gum disease as it reduces the blood flow to the gums and, due to the body’s impacted immune system, leaves them unable to heal properly and become inflamed. Furthermore, serious issues such as oral cancer are linked to smoking. 

Also, any further treatments you may need can have a lower chance of success. This is because nicotine is a vasoconstrictor and lowers the amount of blood flow to an area, causing your body to lack the oxygen and glucose levels necessary to heal. Overall, smoking can lead to many nasty side effects other than simply staining your teeth. 

Many believe that cosmetic procedures are a viable choice to fix your teeth after damage caused by smoking. However, this is not the case as smoking causes long-term consequences that will only, at best, be temporarily solved through such procedures.

As mentioned already, smoking can cause serious health issues and compromise your oral health. Any cosmetic procedure, such as teeth whitening, is only temporary and more serious issues can take hold. You will need to address the root cause of the issue which be expensive as well as often irreversible.

The Truth

Brushing After Smoking:

This is your frontline defense. Brush at least twice a day for two minutes each time, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Consider using a toothpaste specifically designed for smokers, as these often contain ingredients to combat staining and freshen breath.

While not ideal immediately after smoking (as it can spread the tar further), brushing within 30 minutes can help remove surface stains and freshen breath. Just rinse your mouth with water first to get rid of some of the lingering smoke particles.

Maintaining Hydration:

Smoking dries out your mouth, which can exacerbate bad breath and contribute to gum disease. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and keep your mouth healthy.

Regular Dental Checkups:

Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings, ideally every six months with a company such as Dentalbe. This allows your dentist to monitor your oral health more closely, identify any potential problems early on, and provide professional cleaning to remove stubborn plaque and tartar buildup.

MYTH 2: Sugar is the only cause of cavities 

While it is true that sugar can play a role in the development of cavities, it is a common misbelief that it is the sole reason a person has one. Cavities can be caused by a variety of factors including the amount of carbohydrates and acidic foods a person eats, poor dental hygiene, having a dry mouth, and even smoking.  

According to the latest data, the Oral Health Foundation suggests that nearly one in three (31%) adults currently have obvious tooth decay. It is important to see a dentist immediately if you believe you have a cavity as they are easily treatable. 

The Truth

Brushing and Flossing Effectively:

• Brushing: Aim for at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
  • Technique matters: Use a gentle, circular motion, brushing all surfaces of your teeth, including the back and the gum line. Don’t scrub too hard, as this can damage your gums.
• Flossing: Floss once a day. It removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where brushing can’t reach.

Fluoride is Your Friend:

• Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay.
  • Use a fluoride toothpaste.
  • In some areas, public water supplies are fluoridated. You can check with your local municipality or dentist.
  • Depending on your risk factors, your dentist might recommend a fluoride supplement.

Diet Matters:

• Limit sugary foods and drinks: Sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth that produce acid, which can erode tooth enamel and lead to cavities. Sweets, sodas, juices, and even some starchy foods like bread and pasta can contribute to decay if consumed excessively.
• Eat a balanced diet: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and calcium-rich foods like dairy products. These provide essential nutrients for maintaining strong teeth and healthy gums.

MYTH 3: Brushing harder leaves teeth cleaner 

Brushing too hard can leave teeth worse off, especially if your toothbrush has hard bristles. As with acidic foods, the enamel can get worn down from excessive brushing and leave you at an increased risk for tooth decay.  

Furthermore, doing so can also cause gum recession in the future which can lead to exposed sensitive root surfaces, meaning you will need to visit the dentist for more extensive work. If you also smoke, this causes a reduced blood flow to the gums meaning slower healing and more inflammation, so it is vital not to brush too hard.

The Truth

Ditch the Force:

Imagine yourself as a painter, not a power washer. Brushing too hard can wear down tooth enamel, the protective layer safeguarding your teeth from decay. Use a gentle, circular motion, focusing on brushing all surfaces of your teeth for two minutes.

The Power Lies in the Bristles:

Let the soft bristles of your toothbrush do the work. Don’t scrub or apply excessive pressure. A soft-bristled toothbrush effectively removes plaque and debris without harming your teeth or gums.

Think “Tickle” Not “Scrub”:

Imagine you’re gently tickling the surface of your teeth and gum line with the bristles. This ensures you clean all areas without causing irritation or recession of your gums.

Listen to Your Brush:

A good quality toothbrush with soft bristles shouldn’t splay out after a few weeks of use. If the bristles become flattened or frayed, it’s a sign you’re brushing too hard. Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months, or sooner if the bristles show signs of wear.

The Sounds of Success:

Focus on the sound your brush makes against your teeth. A gentle brushing sound indicates the right pressure. If you hear a harsh scraping sound, you’re applying too much force.

Most electric toothbrushes have built-in pressure sensors that warn you if you’re brushing too hard. Utilize this feature to ensure you’re applying the right amount of pressure.

MYTH 4: Mouthwash can replace brushing and flossing occasionally 

While mouthwash is a beneficial addition to oral care, it can’t substitute brushing and flossing. It often misses food particles and lacks enough fluoride, crucial for enamel strength.  

Prolonged fluoride contact, which is vital for efficacy, is unattainable through a quick rinse. Immediate post-brushing mouthwash use removes fluoride; optimal retention requires toothpaste to remain for 30 minutes. Smokers especially need this extra fluoride to limit any further issues. 

The Truth

Think of mouthwash as a supporting player, not the star of the show. While it can’t replace flossing, it offers additional benefits:

• Freshens Breath: Mouthwash effectively neutralizes bad breath caused by bacteria buildup on the tongue and between teeth.
• Reaches Certain Areas: Mouthwash can reach some areas that flossing might miss, like the back of your tongue.
• Fluoride Boost: Some mouthwashes contain fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities.

The Ideal Combination:

For optimal oral hygiene, consider flossing once a day to remove plaque and food particles, and use mouthwash once or twice a day for additional cleansing and freshening breath.

Remember: Flossing is the primary weapon in the fight against plaque buildup, while mouthwash can be a valuable sidekick. By combining both practices, you can achieve a clean, healthy smile and maintain good oral health.

MYTH 5: No-prep veneers cause no permanent change to your teeth 

Normally, veneers require teeth to be heavily shaved down into nubs for the veneers to be cemented into place, but more recently, there have been no-prep veneers available, offering, reportedly, limited changes to a person’s pearly whites. 

No-prep veneers, designed to minimize enamel removal, offer a costly- up to £1300 per tooth- cosmetic dentistry option but still have lasting effects on your teeth as they will often need to be altered in small ways to fit the veneers. Any alteration to enamel is permanent, leading to heightened tooth sensitivity and altered tooth structure.

The Truth

For Minor Imperfections:

• Dental Bonding: This procedure uses a tooth-colored resin material to fix chips, cracks, gaps, or minor discoloration. It’s a less invasive and more affordable option compared to veneers. However, bonding may not be as durable as veneers and might require touch-ups over time.
• Teeth Contouring/Reshaping: This minimally invasive technique involves removing a small amount of enamel to reshape teeth and address minor alignment issues. It’s a good option for minor chips, uneven edges, or slightly pointed teeth. However, it’s not suitable for significant changes or structural issues.

For Moderate Damage or Discoloration:

• Teeth Whitening: Professional in-office whitening treatments offer dramatic results and can significantly whiten teeth that are stained or discolored. This is a good option if the primary concern is color and not the shape or structure of your teeth.
• Dental Crowns: Crowns are caps that cover the entire visible portion of a tooth. They can be used to address cracks, fractures, severe discoloration, or misshapen teeth. Crowns offer excellent durability and can last for many years with proper care. However, they require removing more tooth structure compared to veneers.

For Missing Teeth or Major Alignment Issues:

• Dental Bridges: Bridges are fixed restorations that fill the gap left by missing teeth. They are anchored to the surrounding healthy teeth and support an artificial tooth in the gap. Bridges offer a good solution for restoring functionality and aesthetics in cases of missing teeth.
• Dental Implants: Implants are small titanium posts surgically placed in the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. A crown is then attached to the implant, creating a natural-looking and highly functional replacement tooth. Implants are a long-term solution for missing teeth but require a surgical procedure and have a higher upfront cost.
• Invisalign: This clear aligner system is a popular alternative to traditional braces for mild to moderate teeth misalignment. Clear aligners are virtually invisible and offer a more discreet way to straighten teeth. However, they require a longer treatment time compared to traditional braces.

Myth 6: Baby teeth don’t require much care 

Some may underestimate the importance of caring for baby teeth, knowing they will eventually fall out. However, neglecting them can have significant consequences as baby teeth serve as placeholders for permanent teeth and play a crucial role in speech development and chewing.  

Poor oral hygiene in early childhood can lead to early childhood cavities, causing pain and potential damage to permanent teeth beneath the surface too. Establishing good oral care habits from a young age, including regular brushing, limited sugary snacks, and regular dental check-ups, is essential for maintaining the health of baby teeth and setting the foundation for lifelong dental well-being. 

The Truth

Early Intervention is Key:

• Even Before Eruption: Good oral hygiene starts even before your baby’s first tooth appears. Wipe their gums gently with a clean, damp washcloth after each feeding. This removes bacteria and familiarizes them with the sensation of having something in their mouth.
• Welcome the First Tooth: Once that first tooth breaks through, it’s time to graduate to a tiny, soft-bristled infant toothbrush. Use a smear of fluoride-free toothpaste specifically designed for babies. Brush gently twice a day, focusing on cleaning the visible surfaces of the tooth.

Brushing Up on Technique:

• As Skills Develop: As your child gets older and more coordinated, you can gradually increase the amount of toothpaste to a pea-sized amount and transition to a toddler toothbrush with a slightly larger handle. Continue brushing twice a day for two minutes, but allow them to practice alongside you, gradually letting them take on more responsibility.
• Making it Fun: Brushing time can be a struggle for some toddlers. Use playful songs, timers with their favorite characters, or even let them choose a colorful toothbrush to make the experience more enjoyable.

Flossing Follows Brushing:

• Don’t Forget the Floss: Once your child has teeth that touch, it’s time to introduce flossing. Use a gentle, unwaxed floss and demonstrate the proper technique of cleaning between teeth. You might need to help them with flossing until they have the dexterity to manage it themselves.

Diet Plays a Part:

• Limit Sugary Treats: Just like with adults, sugary foods and drinks can contribute to tooth decay in young children. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, and offer water as their primary beverage.
• Healthy Food Choices: Encourage a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and calcium-rich foods like yogurt and cheese. These provide essential nutrients for healthy tooth development.

Dental Hygeine

It is vital to ensure you are taking diligent care of your teeth every day if you want limited painful trips to the dentist in the future.  

Many problems people face later in life with their teeth can be prevented with detailed care as well as avoiding things we know are bad for our teeth, including fizzy drinks and regularly eating sugary food. Taking the time to properly brush and floss, alongside visiting your dentist regularly regardless of whether there is an issue or not, can be key to ensuring your oral health remains intact well into your old age. 

-a spokesperson from GoSmokeFree

As a mum and someone who’s often in front of the camera, oral hygiene has become a top priority in our household. Healthy smiles aren’t just about aesthetics (although let’s face it, a confident smile lights up any photo!), they’re the foundation for overall health and well-being.

Teaching my kids good dental habits early on sets them up for a lifetime of success. It might involve a bit of creativity and patience, but seeing them embrace brushing and flossing with enthusiasm makes it all worthwhile. After all, a healthy smile is a happy smile.

So, whether you’re a parent, a social media maven, or simply someone who wants to feel confident about their smile, remember – good oral hygiene is an investment in yourself. It’s never too late to start incorporating these simple practices into your routine. Because a healthy smile isn’t just about how you look, it’s about how you feel – confident, radiant, and ready to take on the world!