Dental care comes with a variety of misconceptions, some of which keep people from proper oral care or visiting the dentist for a regular checkup. This can lead to decay and other dental care issues, which is why the staff at Jerry A. Laws DDS and Dr. Caitlin Miller in Davidson County, NC want to explain the top three myths. Knowing the truth will ensure you take proper care of your teeth and don’t delay treatment if symptoms of an issue arise.

Top 3 Dental Myths

1. Hard Brushes Are Good

While it may seem like abrasive bristles will more efficiently clean plaque from your teeth, they end up doing an equal amount of harm. Vigorous brushing with a hard brush does clear plaque and bacteria, but it will also begin to wear down your enamel. Over time, this exposes sensitive dentin that’s highly susceptible to decay. To preserve this protective layer, it’s best to use a soft- or medium-bristled brush. Ask your dentist which brush they would recommend for you. 

2. Cavities in Baby Teeth Are OK

Just because baby teeth fall out doesn’t mean that decay should go untreated. While the cavity will ultimately be “removed” from the mouth when the tooth falls out, untreated cavities affect far more than just the tooth. Decay can spread below the gumline, causing infection and early stages of gum disease. This can create irreparable damage for your child’s mouth and may affect how their adult teeth come in.

3. It’s Too Late for Braces

After adolescence, most people feel braces aren’t an option. However, your dentist and orthodontist can, in most cases, apply braces at any age. There are many discreet options for adults that feel uncomfortable with visible fittings, and most alignment issues can be repaired. Speak with your dentist so they can determine what form of orthodontics is best for your teeth.

If you’re looking for reliable dental care, turn to a dentist at Jerry A. Laws DDS. They offer comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry services and are dedicated to helping patients maintain a healthy smile. Call (336) 249-7708 today to schedule an appointment and visit their website and Facebook to learn more about their services.