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Even More Dental Myths You Should Stop Believing

More truths to help protect your smile and stop misinformation in its tracks

Author

Dr. Foxy
March 27, 2025

Welcome back to Part 2 of my myth-busting series! In the last edition, I debunked five common myths that many people believe about their oral health. Today, we’re digging into the rest—plus a bonus myth you definitely don’t want to miss.

Let’s get started.

🪄 Myth #6: A Hard-Bristle Toothbrush Cleans Your Teeth Better

Truth: A hard-bristle toothbrush doesn’t clean better—it can actually harm your gums. While it may feel like you’re scrubbing away plaque more effectively, stiff bristles can irritate and damage gum tissue, leading to gum recession and sensitivity.

A soft-bristle toothbrush is just as effective at removing plaque without causing unnecessary damage.

⚡ Myth #7: Tooth Abfractions Are Due to Brushing Too Hard

Abfractions are from bite stress, not brushing

Truth: While aggressive brushing can contribute to gum recession, it’s not the main cause of abfractions—the small notches that appear near the gum line. Most abfractions are caused by excessive bite forces from misaligned teeth, clenching, or grinding. These repeated forces put stress on the enamel, leading to structural loss over time.

The best treatment involves correcting the underlying bite issue with orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners. A night guard may help with nighttime grinding, but it won’t prevent pressure during the day.

👶 Myth #8: Baby Teeth Don’t Matter

Truth: Baby teeth are essential for chewing, speaking, and holding space for adult teeth. Neglecting them can lead to decay, pain, and misalignment of permanent teeth.

Good oral habits should start early!

🧬 Myth #9: Tooth Loss Is Genetic, So There’s Nothing You Can Do

Truth: While genetics can play a role in oral health, tooth loss is largely preventable with good dental habits. Brushing, flossing, eating a balanced diet, and visiting your dentist regularly all make a huge difference.

You have more control over your oral health than you might think.

🩸 Myth #10: Bleeding Gums Are Normal

Truth: Bleeding gums are a sign of inflammation, often caused by plaque buildup and early gum disease. Healthy gums don’t bleed—if yours do, it’s time to take action. Daily brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings can help reverse early gum problems.

⚠️ Bonus Myth: Dental X-Rays Are Dangerous

Truth: Modern dental X-rays use extremely low radiation levels and are considered very safe. Skipping them could allow hidden problems like cavities or infections to go undetected.

To put it into perspective: A single dental X-ray exposes you to about 0.005 millisieverts of radiation. For comparison, a banana emits about 0.0001 millisieverts, and a cross-country flight exposes you to around 0.04. So yes, your dental X-ray is actually lower than many common sources of radiation we experience daily.

✨ Quick Tips to Keep Your Smile Healthy

  • Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste 🦷

  • Floss at least once a day 🧵

  • Drink plenty of water 💧

  • Visit your dentist every 6 months—or every 3 months if you have gum disease 🏥

Have a dental myth you want me to debunk? Reply to this email—I might feature it in the next edition!

Stay smiling,
Dr. Foxy, DMD
Smile Couture
[email protected]