Top 7 Myths about Oral Health

Myth: An electric toothbrush can be used like a manual toothbrush

An electric toothbrush requires a different technique compared to a manual toothbrush. Manual brushes should be moved in small gentle circles over the teeth and gums with light pressure for two minutes using a fluoride toothpaste. If you are using an electric brush, let the brush do the work by gently guiding the brush head over the teeth and gums. There is no need to push hard or scrub your teeth with either brush, as this can push the gums away from the teeth and cause sensitivity.

Myth: Sensitive toothpaste fixes the cause of sensitivity

While a sensitive toothpaste helps to manage tooth pain by sealing tooth surfaces, it does not fix the cause of sensitivity. It is important to visit an oral health practitioner to address the cause of the sensitivity, which may include recession, decay or tooth infection.

Myth: Most people brush their teeth twice a day

Only half of all Aussies brush their teeth twice a day.¹ Brushing your teeth in the morning and night is important to prevent the build-up of plaque which can lead to decay and gum disease.

Myth: If I forget to brush my teeth, chewing gum does the trick

Chewing gum isn’t a substitute for brushing your teeth. While chewing sugar-free gum encourages the production of saliva, which helps neutralise acid and repair teeth, it should never be a replacement for brushing your teeth twice a day.

Myth: Fruit juice is better for my teeth than drinking soft drink

It might seem like a better choice, but fruit juices contain high amounts of sugar which increases your risk of tooth decay. Even the diet version of your favourite soft drink might seem like a healthier option but they are usually high in acid, which means they can wear away the protective layer of enamel on your teeth. Hot tip: use a straw to minimise damage to your teeth!

Myth: Gum disease only affects your mouth

There are proven links between gum disease and the health of your whole body. Bacteria from your mouth can travel to other areas of your body, which has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s Disease, adverse pregnancy outcomes, lung conditions and inflammatory bowel disease.²

Myth: You should only see the dentist when you have a problem

We recommend seeing a dentist or oral health therapist every 3 to 12 months for regular check-ups, so they can assess your oral health and identify and address any potential issues early, before they lead to discomfort or complications.

References:

1 AIHW Dental Statistics and Research Unit, September 2009.

2 Australian Dental Association, August 2023.

The information contained here is of a general nature and does not take into account your personal medical situation. The information is not a substitute for independent professional medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or used for therapeutic purposes. Should you require specific medical information, please seek advice from your healthcare practitioner. Health Partners does not accept any liability for any injury, loss or damage incurred by use of or reliance on the information provided. While we have prepared the information carefully, we can’t guarantee that it is accurate, complete or up-to-date. And while we may mention goods or services provided by others, we aren’t specifically endorsing them and can’t accept responsibility for them.