General Dentistry Myths
Serving Hannibal and St. Louis, Missouri and Quincy, Illinois areas
Dental care and oral hygiene practices were first based on at-home cures, folk cures, and old wives’ tales. Dental care has vastly evolved over the centuries and is now based on science and technology. Unfortunately, there are still many general dentistry myths that people believe to be true.
Dental Myth: Whitening my teeth will damage my teeth’s enamel.
Truth: The whitening gel used in in-office and at-home teeth whitening treatments have improved and gotten much safer as technology has advanced. They do not harm or eat away at enamel. They safely remove stains and discoloration due to:
- Tea, coffee, and other beverages
- Smoking and chewing tobacco
- Poor dental hygiene
- Aging
Dental Myth: I do not notice anything wrong with my teeth. That means I do not need to visit a dentist.
Truth: Most dental issues start out small and pose a risk of turning into a serious dental issue. Brushing and flossing regularly will help prevent dental issues. However, some dental issues will occur. Quincy cosmetic dentist Dr. Janes will notice these issues and correct them before they turn into a serious issue.
Dental issues like cavities, gingivitis, or cracked or chipped teeth may be hidden between the teeth or may not cause you any pain at first. If left untreated, the symptoms will worsen and cause you needless pain. It is best to regularly visit a dentist and have any existing dental issues corrected before they get worse.
Dental Myth: If my gums are sore and bleeding, I should not brush or floss them because it will make the symptoms worse.
Truth: The gums become sore and start bleeding when they are not properly taken care of. Food particles, plaque, and tartar build up around the gums every day. It is very important to brush and floss at least twice a day to remove the buildup. If your gums are sore and bleeding, you will need to gently and thoroughly brush and floss to remove the buildup and to strengthen your gums. If your gums continue to bleed, please contact a dentist to schedule an appointment.
Dental Myth: If I have a missing tooth, I do not need to get it replaced unless I want to for aesthetic reasons.
Truth: A missing tooth can cause damage to your jawbone and surrounding teeth. A missing tooth leaves a space in the jawbone allowing the surrounding teeth to move and rub against each other. This movement can cause damage to your teeth’s roots and aid in jawbone loss. Implant dentistry is the field of dentistry that focuses on replacing missing teeth. The replacement teeth will look and feel like your natural teeth and it will help support your jawbone.
Please contact our cosmetic dentistry office to schedule an appointment if you are in the Hannibal area. We are more than happy to answer all of your cosmetic dentistry questions to help you have the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve.
Charles W. Janes, D.D.S.
Functional Cosmetic Dentistry & Full Mouth Rehabilitation
"Designing Smiles, Enhancing Life"
501 Clinic Rd., Hannibal, Missouri 63401
573.221.3360
