We love hearing all the dental myths that patients tell us day in and day out when they come in looking for treatment. Some may be sparked from old truths and methods. Others, from lack of education or knowledge. Either way, there are numerous dental procedure myths that might mislead people or perhaps make them fearful. In order to make decisions about your dental health that are well-informed, it is crucial to distinguish fact from myth. In this article, we'll break down some widespread misconceptions that we hear.

Myth: To get veneers, your teeth will be shaved to “tic tacs”. 

The idea that you need "tic tac teeth" to receive veneers is one of the most common and widespread concerns about them. In fact, veneers can be used to treat a variety of dental issues, such as stained teeth, damaged or chipped teeth, gaps between teeth, and even improperly aligned teeth. Veneers are produced specifically to match the shade and contour of people individually where risks and benefits are discussed. New technology veneers are super thin, meaning less of your teeth will be touched. This may vary individual to individual. 

Another myth regarding veneers is that they always appear manufactured. Simply said, this is untrue. Veneers can now be created to look remarkably natural thanks to improvements in dental technology and materials. We will always consult with you to determine your smile goals to fabricate the ideal shade, shape, and size for your veneers so that they resemble your natural teeth in every way. Moreover, we veneers are created via a layering method to produce a translucent appearance that resembles natural teeth if that is the look you desire. 

Some people worry that their veneers may look too artificial and white. It's crucial to keep in mind that the shade of your veneers are always chosen by you. We will often make a suggestion but at the end of the day, it is the patients’ decision if they want a Hollywood white finish or a more natural hue. We will work with you to select the ideal veneer colour that will suit you as an individual.

Root canals are generally not painful, despite what many people believe. In actuality, root canal procedures are carried out to relieve the often excruciating pain brought on by an infection or inflammation in the tooth's pulp. You shouldn't experience any pain because the treatment is carried out under local anaesthetic. You could feel a little uncomfortable after the procedure, but this is normally manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Myth: A root canal is always necessary if a tooth needs a "cap."

In some cases we might suggest a dental crown, commonly referred to as a "cap," if you have a tooth that is badly decaying or injured in order to restore the tooth's structure and function. The degree of the pulp damage will, however, determine if a root canal is necessary. In some instances, a tooth's function and pain can be restored with just a crown. In other situations, a root canal may be required prior to crown placement. Sometimes crowns are used for broken down or weak teeth and other times, they may be for aesthetic reasons.

Myth: Brushing harder is better for my teeth.

Many people believe that the harder they brush their teeth, the cleaner they will be. However, brushing too hard can actually damage your teeth and gums. Brushing too aggressively can wear down your tooth enamel, causing tooth sensitivity and making your teeth more susceptible to decay. It can also irritate your gums, leading to gum recession and tooth loss. Instead, brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush in a circular motion for two minutes twice a day. If you can’t resist the urge, using an electric toothbrush may help.

Some people believe that flossing isn't necessary because they brush their teeth twice a day. However, brushing alone is not enough to remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth and along the gumline. Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque that your toothbrush can't reach, preventing gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. We often ask patients to aim to floss at least once a day.

While a bright, white smile can boost your confidence and make you feel good, it doesn't necessarily mean your teeth are healthy. Teeth whitening treatments only remove surface stains from your teeth and do not address underlying dental problems such as cavities or gum disease. Regular dental checkups and cleanings, along with a good oral hygiene routine, are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

Myth: The only thing that causes tooth decay is sugar.

Although sugar is a significant cause of tooth decay, it is not the sole one. Citrus fruits, sports drinks, soft drinks, and other acidic foods and beverages can also erode your tooth enamel and cause cavities. Tooth decay can also be caused by bad oral hygiene practices, such as failing to brush and floss regularly. Limiting sugary and acidic foods and beverages is crucial, as is maintaining proper dental hygiene and going to the dentist for examinations and cleanings on a regular basis.

Keeping good oral health starts with separating fact and fiction. Many dental misconceptions can mislead us and influence the choices we make that can be detrimental to our oral health. We can make sure we're taking the greatest possible care of our oral health by consulting with dental professionals. 

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Don't believe these dental myths