Myths and truths about oral health –

Lima, Peru.- Every day, more and more people are worried about having an attractive smile; However, ignorance about how to properly care for the mouth leads us to follow false beliefs that can harm the teeth and gums. Therefore, Dr. Jubitza Loayza, periodontist and medical director of the Eurodent Clinic, clarifies some myths and truths about oral health.

If you brush harder, you'll get cleaner teeth.
Myth. Brushing teeth aggressively will not remove stains on teeth or tartar, on the contrary, it will only damage the gums. Make a good brushing, enough time, good technique and the necessary instruments

Chewing gum can replace brushing.
Myth. Sugar-free chewing gum after meals serves as a mouthwash but does not replace brushing teeth.

It is normal for gums to bleed during brushing
Myth. Bleeding of the gum occurs when there is an infection or abnormality. Gingivitis and periodontitis are the most common diseases of the gums

The more itchy mouthwash, the better the cleaning.
Myth . Mouthwash is a good complement to good dental hygiene; however, containing large amounts of alcohol can cause irritation in the mouth.

Energy drinks and sodas damage teeth.
Truth. They contain a large amount of carbon dioxide, sugar and acids that damages tooth enamel and, in more severe cases, tooth decay and tooth loss.

Bad breath is caused by digestive problems . 19659013] Myth. The majority of cases of bad breath are caused by the mouth, either due to poor oral hygiene, oral problems, periodontal diseases or other causes such as gastric problems, dry mouth, etc.

Cavity is painful.
Myth When decay begins, it is completely painless, it only damages the tooth enamel. The pain occurs when it spreads to the internal tissues of the tooth, sensitive to contact with cold, hot, sweet or bitter drinks.

Caries do not affect the baby teeth.
Myth . The baby teeth need the same care as the final teeth because the health of the former affects the last ones. It is important to keep the teeth temporary so that the child can develop through chewing, muscle tone and bone bases, so that the final teeth can explode.

Children should learn to brush at an early age. Truth. A piece of gauze should be used to remove traces of milk from the gums that cause the accumulation of bacterial plaque. Also, from the onset of the first tooth, it is advisable to consult the dentist so that the child can get used to the environment and prevent the emergence of oral problems. .

Dental implants last forever.
Myth. Implants can last a long time if cared for and if oral hygiene is adequate.

You can do teeth whitening without going to the dentist.
Myth. There are popular techniques for whitening teeth based on the use of sodium bicarbonate, lemon or hydrogen peroxide only weakens tooth enamel and cause a sensitivity. The whitening of teeth should always be under the supervision of a dentist

Tobacco affects oral health.
Truth. Tobacco impairs immunological capacity, decreasing the ability to repair the tissues of the mouth, causing the onset of oral diseases. In addition, it causes bad breath, increases bacterial plaque, dental plaque, tooth stains and oral cancer.

It is only necessary to go to the dentist when the tooth hurts.
Myth. It is recommended to visit the dentist twice a year to prevent dental diseases and complications.

It is not necessary to consult a dentist if you are pregnant.
Myth. During pregnancy, teeth and gums require a complete overhaul to diagnose any type of infection or disease. At this point, there are hormonal changes that affect body tissues facilitating the onset of oral diseases.

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