12 Things Your Dentist Wishes You Knew

We're here to give some insight into little-known dental facts that your dentist wishes you knew.

Unfortunately, dental health is an often overlooked topic. In fact, most of our own staff had no idea about some of these facts until they began working in the industry!

So, we're here to share these 12 tips to help you take better care of your oral health!

1. Prevention is Better Than Cure

   Brushing twice a day, flossing, and regular cleanings prevent most dental issues. Routine care is much easier (and cheaper!) than treating problems after they arise.

   
   

2. Sugar Isn't the Only Culprit

   While sugary treats are harmful, acidic foods and drinks like citrus juices, soft drinks, and wine can erode enamel, causing tooth decay over time. Balance and moderation are key.

   
   

3. Gum Health is Just as Important as Tooth Health

   Healthy gums are the foundation for your teeth. Bleeding or swollen gums often indicate early stages of gum disease (gingivitis), which, if left untreated, can lead to periodontitis, gum recession and tooth loss.

   
   

4. Dental Anxiety is Common

   If you're nervous, let us know! Our dentists regularly work with patients who have extreme dental anxiety, and we've implemented a lot of things throughout our practice to help make your appointment as calm as possible.

   
   

5. Your Oral Health Affects your Overall Health

   Poor dental hygiene has been linked to systemic health issues like heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer's, and even complications in pregnancy. Keeping your mouth healthy can benefit your entire body.

   
   

6. You Need to Change your Toothbrush Regularly

   Replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn-out toothbrush won't clean your teeth effectively.

   
   

7. Bad Breath Might be a Sign of a Bigger Problem

   Chronic bad breath could indicate underlying dental issues like gum disease, cavities, or dry mouth. Regular cleanings and good hygiene can help, but persistent bad breath should be checked by your dentist.

   
   

8. Dental Work isn’t Indestructible

   Fillings, crowns, and implants are strong but not immune to wear and tear. Proper care, including avoiding chewing on hard objects, can extend the life of your dental work. Regular checkups ensure they stay in good condition.

9. Flossing is Essential, not Optional

   Flossing cleans the 35% of your tooth surface that brushing alone misses. It's crucial for preventing gum disease and cavities between teeth, where most decay starts.

   
   

10. Dental X-rays are Safe and Important

    Modern dental x-ray technology uses very low doses of radiation, and it’s a valuable tool for spotting issues like cavities, bone loss, or impacted teeth that aren't visible to the naked eye. If you're concerned about radiation, let your dentist know and they can minimise the need for x-rays as much as possible.

    
    

11. Whitening Toothpaste Won’t Dramatically Change Your Teeth

    Whitening toothpaste can remove surface stains but won’t alter the natural color of your teeth. For significant whitening, professional treatments are much more effective.

    
    

12. Dry mouth is more than just Uncomfortable

    Saliva protects your teeth by neutralizing acids and washing away food particles. Chronic dry mouth can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, so let your dentist know if it's an issue.

We understand that it's difficult to take care of your oral health without knowing all the facts. With all of the misconceptions and myths floating around, it's sometimes impossible to figure out whether you're doing the right things.

But, fear not! That's what we're here for. We're always up for questions and happy to chat. If you have any queries, give us a call to talk to one of our receptionists. Or, if you have specific concerns regarding your oral health, book a consultation appointment with one of our friendly dentists.

Remember, there's no such thing as a dumb question!

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If you're interested in learning more about dental facts, oral health, or our practice, follow us on social media! You can find us on Facebook and Instagram!

Give us a call on (07) 5541 2296 to chat to one of our friendly receptionists.