Ever wonder what is fact and what is fiction when it comes to your teeth? Well, you are in luck – Dr. Rita Medwid your favorite dentist in Stuart is here to set the record straight, once and for all. Join us in the first part of this series as we break down 15 facts and myths about cavities.
Sugar Is The Only Thing That Causes Cavities…
It might be hard to believe, but this is a myth! ADA spokeswoman Kimberly A. Harms says, “The truth is, acid produced by bacteria in your mouth is the cause of cavities.” The process can start with any carb you eat. Sugar, bread, potatoes, fruits, and many others can produce a cavity. Did you know there is less of a chance for bacteria and decay when a food is removed from your teeth faster? Foods that cling to your teeth, like potato chips and raisins, give bacteria something to savor since they are not naturally washed away by saliva.
Acid Causes Tooth Decay…
Fact. Acidic foods make teeth prone to decay. They break down enamel and weaken the tooth. Just as mentioned above, bacteria in the mouth produces acid and the acid eats away at your tooth, causing it to decay. “Eating acidic foods often throughout the day,” says Misty Horn-Blake, DDS, ”can enhance that process.” Good oral care is important for avoiding tooth decay. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss once a day, and don’t forget to visit the dentist!
Kids Get Way More Cavities Than Adults…
Myth! Due to fluoride in tap water, Harm says, “we’ve actually cut decay in school-aged children by half in the last 20 years.” Cavities remain a problem for many people as they age. “Cavities in senior citizens are on the rise because of medications that dry out the mouth. They reduce saliva, which protects your teeth,” she adds. Oral hygiene, salivary flow and composition, and diet are all contributing factors to why some people get more cavities than others.
Aspirin Next to a Tooth Will Help a Toothache…
This is another myth. In order to reduce the pain, you have to actually swallow the aspirin. Be careful where you place it, though. If placed next to a tooth, the aspirin could burn gum tissue and cause a painful abscess. Because it is only a temporary pain reliever, make sure to visit your dentist as soon as possible.
All Fillings Will Need to be Replaced…
Myth. This depends on things like tooth wear and oral hygiene. “Fillings do have a life expectancy,” Harm says. If you practice good oral hygiene, it is likely that you will develop fewer problems and your fillings may last longer. It is important to visit the dentist because they can tell if a filling is worn and if there are any weaknesses in it. The dentist will be able to tell you if the filling is worn away and needs to be replaced.