Uh-oh! 5 Common Fibs Your Dentist Hears

Many people procrastinate going to their biannual dental visits. Whether it’s dental anxiety or embarrassment of how long it has been, it can be easy to keep putting off getting a checkup and cleaning. Once you are there, it can even be tempting to tell a few white lies to your dentist; it may feel uncomfortable revealing the full the truth about your oral health care habits! Here are the most common ones and how your dentist can help.

#1. “I Floss Every Day!”

While brushing your teeth every day is essential to remove plaque and food particles, you cannot reach everywhere. This is why it’s crucial to floss at least once a day. Cleaning thoroughly between your teeth will remove harmful bacteria and stuck debris from those hard-to-reach places like between the teeth and beneath the gum line. If you are experiencing any gum irritation, this is an obvious sign to your dentist that you aren’t flossing as often as you should be.

#2.  “I Brush My Teeth Every Night.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people should brush their teeth at least two times a day for two minutes minimum. Practicing this routine consistently is key to great oral health. However, it can be easy to get tired at night and fall asleep without tending to this essential habit. Going to bed without brushing allows food to stay on your teeth, which can lead to bad bacteria growing in your mouth. This can not only cause tooth decay to develop but gum disease as well. Tell your dentist about your regular habits and they can help offer solutions to keep your smile in top condition!

#3.  “I Never Smoke Cigarettes.”

There are many factors that can negatively impact your smile, but tobacco is perhaps one of the most notorious for staining your teeth. In most cases, it is apparent to your dentist right away if you smoke frequently. Smoking cigarettes, or partaking in any tobacco products, increases your risk of almost every type of cancer, including of the throat and mouth. The use of these products also leads to gum disease, tooth decay, and even cause tooth loss over time.

#4. “I Only Drink Alcoholic Beverages Occasionally.”

Many people enjoy unwinding after a long week with a glass of wine or alcoholic beverage. While this generally doesn’t harm your smile, having one drink after another can pose a risk to both your oral and overall health. People who drink more frequently than others tend to have dryer mouths because it interferes with the production of the salivary glands. This can, in turn, lead to an increase in cavities.  It is best to truly save adult beverages for occasions or minimize them as much as possible.

#5. “Oh, That Doesn’t Hurt at All.”

Do you feel tempted to not let your dentist know that you feel some discomfort? While you may feel strong enough to handle twinges of pain, your dentist is very aware of your behavior and reactions in the examination chair. When you are not fully at ease, your eyes are likely to flinch and clench shut. Your tongue and legs will also tense up. If you are feeling any level of discomfort, do not hesitate to let your dentist know. They may be able to use a topical anesthetic or even offer sedation dentistry to allow you to fully relax during your appointment.

While it may be easy to “bend the truth” at your dental appointment, don’t be afraid to let your dentist know the real deal. They want to help you achieve your best oral health and your honesty will help to assist you successfully!

About the Author

Scotch Plains Fanwood Dental Center improves one smile at a time through the expertise of its team of dentists. They offer a full range of comprehensive services, including preventive care. With a focus on modern technology, customized plans, and your comfort, they can keep your oral health in top condition! To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or call (908) 389-7992.