As with many aspects in life, people may firmly believe things that simply are just not true. There are definitely Alternative Dental “Facts” circulating around that are not only not true, but also can be harmful to your overall dental health! So, let’s set the record straight and debunk the top 5 dental fake news myths!

Alternative Fact #1: An electric toothbrush is better than a manual one
Truth: There are many companies and dental offices out there that want you to believe that you need to use an electric toothbrush. You see the ads for them everywhere. Enter science. There was a properly conducted scientific study that showed NO difference between the two if the users were using them properly. The danger is that if one switches to the electric toothbrush they might feel that they don’t have to scrub as much. Not so. Just use it the same way you would use a manual and you’ll be fine. A nice benefit to some of the electric ones is that they have timers on them that might get some to use them longer.

Alternative Fact #2: If you put aspirin near your tooth it will help relieve a toothache.
Truth: If you are suffering from a toothache, call to make a dental appointment immediately! Also please take aspirin the normal way. Putting aspirin on the side of your tooth will only cause irritation to your gum tissues. The source of the pain will not go away unless you are seen by a dentist in order to have it diagnosed and treated properly!

Alternative Fact #3: Since baby teeth will eventually fall out, there is no reason to treat them.
Truth: Even though they are baby teeth, they are still extremely important!! Along with the same reasons teeth are important for adults, to chew, to speak, and to smile, they do the same things for children. These teeth also act as spacers allowing the jaw to continue to grow while keeping the correct room for adult teeth to grow into. Baby teeth can also develop toothaches, cavities, and lead to poor dental health in the future if not taken care of.

Alternative Fact #4: You must see your dentist TWICE a year.
Truth: This “fact” was made up by an ad agency!! The proper amount of times to visit your dentist varies people to people. Visiting the dentist twice a year for cleanings and checkups is enough for some patients but not all. This should be determined by your own dentist based on your overall dental health.

Alternative Fact #5: It is normal for your gums to bleed a little bit while brushing or flossing.
Truth: If your gums are healthy, they will not bleed when brushing of flossing. Bleeding is a sign of gum disease – and gum disease can lead to tooth loss!! Please contact your dentist immediately if you notice any amount of bleeding when brushing. It is not only not normal but an indicator that you might have early signs of gum disease!

Dillon Family Dentistry is here to help! If you have any questions regarding a dental office or need family dental care and you are in the Main Line, Visit Invisalign Bryn Mawr PA or call us today at 610-525-5497!