Dental Myths That Just Won’t Die—and Why They’re Wrong

Even with all the information available today, myths about teeth and dental care still stick around. An Idaho Falls dentist often hears patients repeat these old beliefs, sometimes leading to choices that aren’t so great for oral health. It’s worth taking a closer look at some of these common myths and why they just aren’t true.

Dental Myths

An Idaho Falls dentist knows one of the biggest myths is that sugar alone causes cavities. While sugar definitely feeds the bacteria that produce enamel-damaging acid, it’s actually about how long sugar stays on your teeth, not just how much you eat. Sipping a single can of soda slowly over several hours is worse than drinking it quickly and rinsing with water afterward. Sticky snacks that linger on teeth also increase risk.

Another stubborn myth is that if your gums bleed when brushing or flossing, you should stop. In reality, bleeding gums usually mean there’s inflammation, often from plaque buildup. Stopping flossing can make the problem worse. Gentle but consistent brushing and flossing, plus a dental cleaning, usually helps gums return to health.

Many people also think baby teeth don’t matter since they fall out anyway. But cavities and infections in baby teeth can be painful and even affect how adult teeth come in. Keeping baby teeth healthy helps guide proper spacing and protects a child’s speech development and chewing ability.

There’s also a belief that hard brushing makes teeth cleaner. Brushing too hard can actually wear down enamel and irritate gums, leading to sensitivity and recession over time. A soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle circles are usually best.

A common question dentists hear is about whitening toothpaste or charcoal products. While whitening toothpaste can help with surface stains, it won’t change the natural color of enamel. Charcoal toothpaste is especially risky because it can be abrasive, slowly wearing down enamel and making teeth appear more yellow as the protective outer layer thins.

Avoiding the Dentist

Another myth is that dental visits aren’t needed if nothing hurts. Many dental problems, like cavities or early gum disease, don’t cause pain until they’re advanced. Regular checkups help catch issues early, often meaning simpler, less costly treatments.

Some people worry that dental treatments, especially root canals, cause illness elsewhere in the body. This old myth isn’t supported by modern science. Root canals remove infection from a tooth, preventing it from spreading further and protecting overall health.

It’s also common to hear that putting an aspirin directly on a sore tooth can relieve pain. In reality, aspirin can burn the soft tissue inside your mouth and won’t address the cause of the pain. Swallowing pain relievers as directed is safer.

Pregnant patients sometimes think they should avoid the dentist. In truth, maintaining dental care during pregnancy is important. Gum disease has been linked to pregnancy complications, and dentists can safely perform cleanings and certain treatments when necessary.

Dental Myths Can Hurt Oral Health

Believing dental myths can lead to choices that damage teeth or gums over time. If you’re ever unsure, it’s always better to ask your dentist directly. Dentists see these issues every day and can help separate fact from fiction.

Your oral health is worth protecting with good habits and accurate information. Regular checkups, daily brushing and flossing, and balanced eating habits make a much bigger difference than any trend or quick fix.

In the end, the truth is simpler than most myths: caring for your teeth gently and consistently is the best way to keep your smile strong and healthy for life.