Brushing your teeth is as easy as 1 2 3, or is it? Research says that only 1 in every 10 people brush their teeth correctly! Can you believe it?
Now if you are sheepishly rushing to scour the internet for top dental tips, you are going to be here for a while. When it comes to taking care of your health, there are more misconceptions than straightened-out facts. We are here to make it easier for you!
Do some of these foretold myths hold some truth or are they all fallacies? Here we bust common myths about brushing.
Myth #1: The harder you brush, the cleaner your teeth
The real thing: While brushing passionately and with dedication deserves our respect, but did you know that over-brushing is actually a thing?
Brushing with too much force or using too abrasive of a toothbrush can harm your teeth by eroding the tooth enamel that protects your teeth from cavities and decay.
It is best to use gentle force with a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth. So the next time your brush looks like a frayed toilet cleaner, you know it’s time to stop!
Myth #2: I have to brush my teeth after every meal
The real thing: Over-brushing can do more harm than good. When you eat, the acidity in your mouth increases to help you break down food.
Brushing while these acids are still active can cause them to run deeper into the enamel, thus damaging your teeth. Wait at least 30 minutes after a meal before brushing.
Myth #3: Bleeding gums means I need to stop brushing
The real thing: So you see a little tinge of blood while brushing or flossing. Don’t freak out!
And definitely don’t stop brushing. While it is true that healthy gums do not bleed, bleeding gums can also mean that your body is sending active antibodies to help your gums deal with harmful bacteria growth.
Myth #4: As long as I’m not in pain, I don’t need to go see the dentist
The real thing: Pain or increased sensitivity to cold are typical signs that you need to see a dentist ASAP.
However, there can also be other signs to indicate proliferating gum disease. Receding gum or severely bleeding gums can signal the beginning of gum disease. It is wise to visit the dentist as regularly as dentists can help you to prevent oral diseases!
Myth #5: Putting a cap on your toothbrush can protect it from bacteria
The real thing: Sorry to burst your bubble but using a toothbrush cover can create a moisture-enclosed breeding ground for bacterial growth.
To keep your toothbrush clean, all you need to do is to rinse it with tap water after use and let it dry between brushings. Also, don’t keep it close to other toothbrushes to avoid swapping germs.
And here we have it, all the popular brushing myths, debunked and the truth unveiled! Brush safe, folks!
