7 Common Myths That Could Send You to the Periodontist on Long Island
A myth is defined as an unapproved or false collective belief. These beliefs often dictate how we manage our lives and interactions. For some they will follow their beliefs even to the detriment of their oral health. Don’t be the one who allows myths about oral care to send you remorsefully to a Periodontist on Long Island.
According to the American Academy of Periodontology there are several common misconceptions, or myths, that people truly believe. If these misconceptions could be corrected through education it is believed that more people will keep their natural teeth and healthy smiles. It begins by recognizing what those myths are, and then discovering the truth behind them.
One common misconception is that we only brush to remove the food from our teeth. Perhaps you’ve heard your kids say, “why do I have to brush I haven’t eaten anything.” Comments like these are where the false belief begins. It’s important that you teach your children early that brushing not only removes food but it removes plaque too, something they might not see on their teeth.
Another false belief frequently uttered about is that it’s normal if your teeth bleed while brushing and flossing. Contrary to this belief, bleeding gums is one of the many signs of gum disease and should be evaluated by a dentist.
Many people may not believe that oral health has any impact on their overall health, however research suggests different. When gums are infected it could contribute to heart disease, stroke, and preterm labor as well as pose a serious threat to those suffering from diabetes or respiratory disease.
The next misconception is that bad breath is a result of poor oral care. In fact, bad breath is a result of sulfur compounds produced by specific bacteria in the mouth. To help reduce bad breath you should brush your tongue during your normal oral care routine.
Next on the list is the belief that cavities are the leading cause of tooth loss. It has been proven that cavities alone are not the number one cause for tooth loss. Rather it’s a combination of cavities and periodontal disease.
If you’re pregnant perhaps you’ve been told to skip your dental check-ups for the health of the baby. Taking this advice could be a huge mistake. Periodontal disease can affect unborn baby’s health. Visit your dentist regularly and stay on top of your health care throughout your pregnancy.
Finally, that last common myth on the list is that stress does not impact your oral health. Researchers have found that high people with higher levels of stress are more likely to develop periodontal disease than those with reduced stress levels.
Don’t be fooled by these common misconceptions. Take your oral health care seriously. To have your gums evaluated by a Periodontist on Long Island contact Dr. Scharf. He treats gum disease with a laser, not a scalpel, providing and alternative to surgery. Call Dr. Scharf today at 631-661-6633 or visit him on the web at http://drscharf.com
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