Myths and facts on World Smile Day
Brushing with a firm bristle toothbrush is best
FICTION: A soft bristled toothbrush is recommended to not damage the teeth’s enamel.
Dark chocolate is good for our teeth (in moderation, of course!)
FACT: This may be surprising, but chocolate which has at least 70% cacao - contains a compound called CBH, which has been shown to help harden tooth enamel.
How you brush is more important than how often
FACT: Technique is vital when it comes to brushing – ensure you’re brushing for at least two minutes in a circular motion.
Flossing is just as important as brushing
FACT: Brushing alone isn’t effective. Given there are places which are difficult to reach with a toothbrush, it’s important to floss as regularly as you brush.
Only sugar causes cavities
FICTION: While sugar certainly isn’t good for our teeth, it isn’t the only culprit. Foods that are highly acidic or sticky leave teeth vulnerable to cavities.
Children can get cavities on their baby teeth
FACT: Milk teeth contain enamel and can get cavities. This makes it important for kids to develop good brushing habits while they are young.
Eating cheese helps prevent tooth decay
TRUE: Eating cheese at the end of a meal can help prevent tooth decay. It stimulates saliva flow which acts a natural acid buffer by neutralising the acids formed during mealtimes.
Tap water is better for our teeth than bottled water
FACT: Most tap water in Australia contains fluoride which is necessary for health teeth, however many types of bottled water don’t contain optimal levels of fluoride.
Dental treatment while pregnant isn’t recommended
FICTION: Visiting the dentist while pregnant is highly recommend, and routine dental procedures (cleaning, cavity fillings etc) are safe while pregnant.
Good oral health is important for overall health
FACT: Poor dental care not only affects the teeth and gums, but research shows links to heart disease, cancer and diabetes.
I brush, floss and pikster my pearly whites