At Michelle Munoz, DDS, we hear all kinds of stories. What worries us is the realization that some of our patients believe these unlikely tales. In the interest of making sure our patients are the most educated people in Uvalde, Texas, we offer the following myth-busting facts.
Myth #1 — Whitening Ruins Your Enamel
The truth is, professional teeth whitening is perfectly safe. This myth could stem from the fact that one of the side effects of whitening is temporary tooth sensitivity; even when you experience that sensitivity, your enamel is perfectly safe.
Myth #2 — Don’t Floss If Your Gums Are Bleeding
No! It’s the opposite: Your gums are probably bleeding because you don’t floss regularly. If you notice blood on your gum-line or see that your toothpaste has a pink tinge when you spit, you need to see a dentist ASAP, as you might have gum disease. In the meantime, get busy flossing those teeth to avoid further damage.
Myth #3 — Pregnant Women Shouldn’t Go to the Dentist
False. You should always tell your dentist if you are pregnant, as they may choose to postpone x-rays or certain surgical procedures until you’ve recovered from giving birth, but pregnant women especially need to go to the dentist to prevent infections and bacteria that could harm the fetus. Because of hormone fluctuations, in fact, many women get what is known as “pregnancy gingivitis.” If you are pregnant, stick to your semi-annual cleanings and examinations to keep yourself and your baby health.
Myth #4 — What Happens to My Child’s Baby Teeth Doesn’t Matter
While there are adult teeth waiting to erupt, your child’s baby teeth are very important. Not only are they necessary for speech and digestion, they also help to guide the adult teeth into position. For this reason, you should treat your child’s teeth with as much TLC as you would your own adult teeth. Even a tiny single tooth should be brushed with a soft child’s toothbrush.
If you ever hear tales about teeth that sound too good (or too bad) to be true, they probably are. Instead of believing everything you hear, get your information from a dental professional like Michelle Munoz, DDS. We’ve been providing the people of Uvalde, Texas, with outstanding care for years and would love for you to join our dental family. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.