- Tooth extraction is nothing to worry about: Ideally you should take all possible steps to preserve your biological teeth, as no prosthetic replacement can fully replicate a natural tooth. If you can’t save a tooth and need to have it extracted, you should consult with an oral surgeon to explore dental implants, which are the most structurally complete tooth replacement available.
- Bleeding gums are normal: Bleeding gum tissue almost always indicate a problem, even if you only experience this symptom when you brush or floss. Bleeding gums are a symptom of early stage gum disease, which can be treated relatively easily. However, if you ignore this symptom, the gum disease will advance and require a more invasive intervention. Ultimately, tooth and bone loss can occur.
- People who brush and floss each day don’t have to see the dentist every six months: While a home oral hygiene routine is important for maintaining a healthy smile, professional exams and cleanings are essential as well. Plaque can still accumulate despite robust brushing and flossing habits, and a dental hygienist can access parts of your smile that it’s much harder for you to reach. Additionally, when a dentist monitors your teeth and gums for signs of oral diseases every six months, these conditions can be identified earlier and treated much more easily. Advanced decay or gum disease may necessitate the involvement of a specialist, such as an oral surgeon.
- White teeth are healthy teeth: The shade of your teeth has nothing to do with how healthy they are. Don’t assume that you don’t have any problems with your teeth just because they look nice.
Are you operating with oral health misinformation? Call our team at Central Oklahoma Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Associates to get the facts!