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5 Things People Don’t Understand About Dental Health | Annapolis MD Cosmetic Dentist

Do you have misconceptions about oral health? Many people do. Knowing the facts can help improve  your dental hygiene for life, leading to a healthier and more beautiful smile. Here are five things people  don’t understand about dental health. See if your eyes are opened.  

Misconception #1 – Whiter teeth are healthier teeth 

Healthy teeth come in a wide range of natural shades. Whiter teeth cannot show if there is an infection or  decay between the teeth. Although pure white teeth do not equate to healthier teeth, they should still be  naturally on the whiter side. Proper brushing, more regular cleanings, and cosmetic dentistry (such as  tooth whitening and veneers) are possible solutions you can explore with our dentist.  

Misconception #2 – Children are more prone to tooth decay 

Tooth decay (cavities, or caries, in dental parlance) can develop at any age. People assume children are  more prone to decay because of poor brushing and flossing habits. While that may be true, caries form in  all people the same way: when bacteria cause a loss or weakening in tooth enamel and eventually decay  forms a hole in the tooth.  

Misconception #3 – My teeth are fine if they don’t hurt 

Tooth decay typically doesn’t cause pain until it becomes very severe. Once it gets to a critical stage, the  amount of decay could lead to more invasive and costly treatments. Some of the most dangerous mouth  disorders, such as oral cancer and gum disease, typically don’t cause pain at all. That is why it is  important to keep up with scheduled dental appointments. Our dentist can diagnose problems even at the  earliest stages when there is no discomfort. 

Misconception #4 – Tooth decay is only caused by sweets 

Do you love sugary food and drinks? So do the bacteria that live in your mouth! They consume it and  produce acid. This acid works to dissolve tooth enamel, which can result in decay. However, it’s important  to know that this is not only true of sugar; it applies to anything containing starch or carbohydrates. Food  such as crackers, bread, potato chips, fruit, peanut butter and pasta have the same effect on your teeth.  The solution: Brush and floss after meals and snacks, or rinse well with water if you can’t brush. 

Misconception #5 – If my gums bleed, I should stop flossing 

Bleeding gums are often the first sign of gum disease. This happens when bacterial infections inflame  your gums due to inefficient cleaning. With regular brushing and flossing, gums will be much healthier and  should rarely bleed. However, gum inflammation can occur despite best oral hygiene habits. In such  cases, you should see improvement if you rinse with warm salt water and continue to brush and floss. 

Excellent oral health promotes overall good health and is definitely not a misconception. It is important to  practice good oral hygiene habits. If you have any questions regarding your dental health, please contact Patton Smiles and make an appointment with our Annapolis dentist today. 

Patton Smiles of Annapolis
Phone: (410) 295-1000
104 Forbes St., Suite 204
Annapolis, MD 21401

Dentist in Annapolis

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Patton Smiles

104 Forbes St. Suite 204
Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 295-1000

Providing Dental Care For the Communities of:

Annapolis, Admiral Heights, West Annapolis, Loretta Heights, Eastport, Forest Villa & surrounding areas

Convenient Office Hours:

Monday: 7:00am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday: 7:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday: 7:00am - 4:00pm
Thursday: 7:00am - 4:00pm
Friday: By Appointment only

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  • America Dental Association
  • American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
  • American Dental Society of Anesthesiology: ADSA
  • Maryland State Dental Association

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By far the best dentist office, service and staff in all of Maryland!! Dr. Patton is great and passionate about his work. The staff is so kind and pleasant to deal with. I’ve referred everyone I know here!

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104 Forbes Street
Suite 204
Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 295-1000