Some myths are a colorful part of our history. Many decades ago individuals provided dental treatment that was not based on scientific principles. Because of this assumption-based treatment, myths developed and became imprinted in people’s minds.

Dentistry today is a branch of medical science based on scientific facts. In this article a few of the most common dental myths are addressed to set the record straight.

Myth #1: Some people have a more difficult time fighting cavities because “soft teeth” run in their families. The fact is that inherited diseases and conditions which lead to cavities are few and far between. Usually bad teeth run in a family because parents who fail to take proper care of their own teeth also do not take care of their children’s teeth. At the very least, a child’s teeth should be inspected by a parent after a thorough brushing each day.

Myth #2: Periodontal disease doesn’t affect the rest of my body. Unfortunately, periodontal (or gum) disease is so common that nearly 80 percent of Americans have it. The bacteria in periodontal disease may cause blood clots which can trigger a heart attack or stroke. It also puts you at risk for tooth loss which has been associated with cardiovascular disease, according to recent studies by the Centers for Disease Control.

Myth #3: Placing an aspirin on an aching tooth will relieve the pain.
You can take an aspirin internally to relieve a toothache, but placing it directly on the tooth will not alleviate the pain. The aspirin can actually cause a chemical burn to the surrounding tissue.

Myth #4: When the gums bleed, it is better not to brush the teeth.
Bleeding gums are a sign of inflammation and that they are not healthy. This is usually a result of plaque and food particles accumulating around the teeth. Until this collection is brushed off around the teeth and gums, they will continue to bleed. Brushing the teeth with a soft bristled toothbrush with the proper technique will remove the plaque and help the gums to heal. The initial bleeding will gradually be reduced over a period of time. If the gums continue to bleed, a visit to the dentist for evaluation and cleaning may be needed.