Whether you heard it from a parent or a friend, many misconceptions surround dental health. However, you shouldn’t buy into everything you hear. Being able to differentiate fact from fiction when it comes to oral hygiene will help you take proper care of your teeth. To help you navigate this information, the friendly dentists at the office of Dr. Robert Petrtyl in Cincinnati, OH, explain some of these misconceptions below.  

3 Common Dental Myths Debunked

1. White Equals Healthy 

While white teeth may improve the aesthetic appearance of your smile and boost self-confidence, this doesn’t necessarily mean you have good dental health. It’s as possible for a person with pearly white teeth to have cavities, as it is for a person with discoloration to have a healthy smile.  

2. Sugar Causes Tooth Decay

Sugar isn’t necessarily a direct contributor to tooth decay. In fact, this damage occurs when bad bacteria formed by digesting refined carbohydrates combines with the saliva in your mouth to break down tooth enamel.

3. You Should Brush After Every Meal

While it’s understandable to assume that brushing after every meal is a surefire way to prevent the onset of tooth decay, this is not a habit recommended by dentists. If you brush too soon after eating, you could risk eroding your enamel.

If you need to schedule an appointment for a dental cleaning or cosmetic dentistry procedure, contact the dentists at Dr. Robert Petrtyl in Cincinnati, OH, at (513) 554-4657. The premier clinic offers a comprehensive range of general and cosmetic dentistry services, from oral exams to gum disease treatments. For a full list of the procedures they provide, visit their website today.