Most people understand the basics of dental care, including brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. However it’s all too easy to believe “facts” passed on by well-meaning friends, but not knowing the truth could damage your smile. We’ve debunked a few of the most common myths listed below.

Myth: I shouldn’t brush my teeth so often if my gums begin to bleed.
Truth: Bleeding gums are often the first sign of periodontal disease. Periodontal or gum disease is often due to poor oral hygiene, so you should be brushing and flossing more frequently, and more thoroughly than before.

Myth: Wisdom teeth should be extracted even if they don’t cause me problems.
Truth: Wisdom teeth will only be removed by your dentist in Weymouth, MA if they are already creating oral health issues, or are likely to cause problems in the future.

Myth: You don’t need to take care of baby teeth as they fall out anyway.
Truth: It’s vital baby or milk teeth are not lost too early. These teeth hold open the correct amount of space for the adult teeth to erupt normally and they help your child learn to eat and speak properly.

Myth: My teeth are white so they must be healthy.
Truth: White teeth are not necessarily healthy as they can still have tooth decay or may be affected by gum disease. Regular checkups with your dentist in Weymouth, MA will help ensure your teeth are as healthy as they look.

Myth: Eating chocolate causes tooth decay.
Truth: Tooth decay occurs if you eat lots of sugary or carbohydrate rich foods that stick to your teeth for long periods of time. These foods feed bacteria in your mouth, increasing acidity levels and weakening tooth enamel. In fact chocolate isn’t as bad as some other sticky chewy candies as it is more easily washed away by saliva.