Debunking Common Myths
There is a lot of misinformation out there about dental health and aging. Let’s clear up a few common myths.
Myth 1: Losing your teeth is a normal and unavoidable part of getting older.
Fact: This is completely false. With good home care and regular professional checkups, your natural teeth can and should last a lifetime. Tooth loss is most often caused by preventable diseases, primarily gum disease and tooth decay. It is not a natural consequence of aging.
Myth 2: If you have full dentures, you don’t need to see a dentist anymore.
Fact: This is a dangerous misconception. Your dentist does much more than check teeth. During a checkup for a denture-wearer, the dentist examines all the soft tissues of the mouth for signs of oral cancer, checks for infections, and ensures the dentures fit properly to prevent sores and bone loss. Annual visits are still essential.
Myth 3: You should stop brushing an area if your gums bleed.
Fact: This is the opposite of what you should do. Bleeding gums are a sign of inflammation caused by plaque buildup. Avoiding the area allows more plaque to accumulate, making the problem worse. You should brush and floss the area gently but thoroughly to remove the plaque that is causing the irritation. If the bleeding persists for more than a week, see your dentist.
