Research Round #3 – Inquiry

In this 3^rd and final round of research, I will be looking at the 6 top misconceptions about our dental health (possible myths) and diseases that may be caused by poor dental hygiene.

I have stated this common misconception a few times in previous research rounds but the number one misconception is that brushing your teeth harder does no make them any cleaner. From brushing too hard you can cause your gums to prematurely recede, exposing tooth that is usually covered which can cause tooth decay. (1) (2) (3) (4)

Sugar is indeed not the only reason that you might get a cavity or two at your next check up. Sugar should still be taken in moderation because it can cause cavities but so can starches or carbohydrates, when they stay lingering in your mouth or stuck to your teeth your mouths bacteria will turn them into acids. When those acids mix with your saliva that is when plaque is introduced and plaque can harm your tooth’s enamel. (1) (3) (4) (5)

Oral health does contribute to other underlying health issues someone might have for example. Periodontal disease or gum disease has been linked to have a higher developing risk of arthritis and those with diabetes have found that it may be easier to regulate their blood sugar once their oral health improved. (1) (2)

Bad breath is normal but constant bad breath could be a sign of other issues. If your are suffering from from chronic bad breath or halitosis, to see a dentist would be most recommended as they can advise you what to do or what products to substitute to help alleviate the bad breath. However if bad breath is prolonged after seeing your dentist this could be a sign of possible “respiratory disease kidney problems and conditions in other parts of the body.” (1)

Even with great oral health there are many foods that can contribute to having foul smell or taste in the mouth. (2)

Bleeding gums is not normal. If you are someone that has a habit of brushing hard you might get some bleeding which is a sign of premature receding of the gums as you are vigorously brushing them. Bleeding gums cant get worst than that, it could be a sign of gum disease if caught early enough there will be no long term effects such as tooth lose. (2) (3) (4) (5)

References : 

1. 6 Misconceptions About Oral Health. (2020, February 13). Retrieved from https://www.dentalchoice.ca/misconceptions-about-oral-health
2. Misconceptions About Periodontal Health Article: Periodontal Disease: Colgate® Oral Care Information Check-ups & Dental Procedures. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/gum-disease/aap-clears-up-misconceptions-about-periodontal-health
3. Mouth Myths: 4 Misconceptions About Dental Care. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://toothworkscalgary.com/mouth-myths-4-misconceptions-about-dental-care/
4. 11 Dental Myths and Misconceptions. (2019, November 14). Retrieved from https://www.209nycdental.com/11-dental-myths-and-misconceptions/
5. User. (2017, March 1). Dentist in Arlington: The Truth Behind 5 Popular Dental Misconceptions. Retrieved from https://cusumanoandstuver.com/the-truth-behind-5-popular-dental-misconceptions/