Irish Dentists Debunk Oral Care Myths and Misconceptions

As They Highlight The Importance of Looking After Your Baby Teeth and Daily Flossing

Dr. Lisa and Dr. Vanessa Creaven, certified dentists and founders of oral care company Spotlight Oral Care, have debunked some of the most common, and dangerous, oral care myths and misconceptions out there.

While there is a huge range of oral care advice available online, much of it is nonfactual and can often be misleading. Everyday, oral care research and developments take place, and as a result, dental advice is subsequently updated. In addition to this, some myths have been doing the rounds for generations, such as the theory that worms inside the mouth were the cause of cavities. 

Common myths about oral care:

1. I Should Only Visit the Dentist When My Teeth Hurt

Myth - Similar to many other health issues, until your oral care issue is of serious concern, symptoms or signs may not be evident. Dr. Lisa and Dr. Vanessa recommend scheduling semi-annual dental visits in order to keep on top of your oral health. Waiting until you experience pain or swelling is inadvisable, as at that stage, long term damage may already have been done. The longer oral issues go untreated, the more difficult they will be to treat.



2. The Harder You Brush Your Teeth, the Better

Myth - Brushing too hard can damage your teeth and gums, contributing to problems such as receding gums, sensitivity, and enamel wear. The Spotlight Oral Care Sonic Toothbrush uses professionally designed sonic technology to allow the gentle feel of a manual toothbrush with an actual deep clean effect. The Sonic Toothbrush does all the work for you, so there’s no need to brush hard, while still ensuring a dentist-clean feel! If you find you have sensitive teeth or gums, the ‘Sensitive’ setting is perfect to ensure an effective clean without being too harsh on the gums or teeth.

3. Sugar-Free Drinks Are Healthier for Your Teeth

Myth - While it is well known that fizzy drinks can cause cavities and tooth decay, sugar-free soft drinks aren’t without fault. Sugar-free soft drinks are often seen as the healthier option, but acid from these drinks can contribute to loss of enamel leading to sensitivity and cavities. So, keep in mind that just because something says it’s free from sugar, it doesn’t mean it’s good for you! 



4. Whitening Damages Your Teeth

Myth - Certain teeth whitening treatments may cause damage or sensitivity to teeth, particularly when used incorrectly. However, the Spotlight Oral Care Teeth Whitening Strips contain a controlled amount of the active ingredient hydrogen peroxide, in line with European guidelines. As a result, these Teeth Whitening Strips work to brighten your smile safely, without causing damage or sensitivity.  



5. Flossing is Unimportant 

Myth - According to Dr. Lisa and Dr. Vanessa, flossing should be an essential part of everybody’s daily routine. The importance of flossing is often underestimated. It plays a key role in not only good oral health but also in a person’s overall health. 50% of the fillings a person receives in their lifetime start between the teeth at the point where the toothbrush can’t reach. This is the reason that flossing down into the debris between the teeth is so important. The dentists encourage flossing before you brush your teeth in order to dislodge any food built up between the teeth.

6. Bleeding Gums are Normal and Nothing to Worry About 

Myth - Bleeding gums when brushing your teeth are caused as a result of gum inflammation. Gum inflammation is definitely abnormal and is not indicative of a healthy mouth. Bleeding gums can be a sign of a number of oral issues, such as gum disease, bacterial infections which can lead to gingivitis, and a buildup of plaque. Dr. Lisa and Dr. Vanessa recommend scheduling an appointment with your dentist if you become aware of bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can lead to chronic bleeding, receding gums and even tooth loss. 

Dr. Lisa Creaven, Dentist and Spotlight Oral Care Founder, commented on the misconception and reluctance to floss; ‘When it comes to flossing, there is no particular ‘correct way’ to do it. We often see patients who are reluctant to floss once they see blood! It’s important to note that this is normal at the beginning and the more regularly you floss, the less chance you have of experiencing bleeding gums.’