9 Popular Dental Myths Debunked

Pretty much false.

By not flossing, you are allowing food and bacteria to settle in your mouth. This increases the chances of cavities, gum disease and bad breath. “If you’re not the flossing type, there are alternatives like interdental brushes, oral irrigators or increasing the number of trips to a hygienist,” says Dr. Bertman. Would anyone actually prefer the latter?

True.

In fact, it’s one of the most acidic liquids you can put in your mouth. You may remember from 8th grade science that acidity is measured on a pH scale with values ranging from one to 14. The closer to one, the more acidic and destructive to your enamel. Seven is neutral with 14 considered “basic,” but a “good basic” (unlike that girl sipping a PSL and wearing last year’s Uggs). “Tap water and saliva are close to seven, but wine, for example, is approximately a three. Even though it’s quite acidic, lemon juice (a two) is actually 10 times more acidic,” explains Dr. Bertman.

False.

“In the 16 years of bleaching patients’ teeth, irreversible sensitivity has never happened,” Dr. Bertman claims. But temporary sensitivity is common. “You and your dentist should avoid getting gel on the gums or in areas of recession and exposed roots,” he suggests.

False.

While a tooth won’t dissolve overnight, the phosphoric acid of soda will surely damage the enamel and the cementum of the root surface. “Keep in mind that saliva will protect teeth and bring up the pH level to dilute the acidity,” Dr. Bertman reminds us. But should we ditch the Diet Coke forever? “The best thing is moderation,” he says. “Allow the beverage to pass your teeth by using a straw. Tfees straws are made perfectly for this purpose.”

True, but there’s a catch.

Chewing gum can absolutely loosen fillings and even aggravate problems associated with TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorders), but gum can be a good thing. “It creates the flow of saliva and can help protect your teeth against cavities,” says Dr. Bertman. If the gum contains Xylitol, even better. The sugar substitute prevents acid production from the bacteria in the mouth and, according to studies, has shown to reverse small cavities. Keep chomping!

False.

Foods and beverages with high acidity won’t erode your gums, but they can erode the areas of the teeth and roots where there is gum recession. “This tooth erosion becomes abrasion if you brush your teeth soon after ingesting acidic foods or beverages,” warns Dr. Bertman. “Your teeth become softened and more susceptible to damage. This is why we advise patients to rinse with water before brushing.” As with most things in life, hydration is key.

True, but there are other factors when it comes to stains.

There are three types of stains: intrinsic (forming within the tooth as teeth develop), extrinsic (caused by colorful food and beverages) and age-related discoloration. “Black coffee and teas with tannins appear to be the most common offenders for extrinsic stains,” says Dr. Bertman. “Opting for green tea would be a better choice.” Other culprits? Red wine, soy sauce, cranberry juice, cola and tomato sauce. Looks like Italian night is off the table.

True.

Milk, cheese and yogurt have proven to benefit overall teeth health. “Dairy products contain casein, a protein that combines with phosphorus and calcium to protect the enamel from bacterial acids. This unique trifecta of nutrients also helps to protect against dental decay and erosion,” says Dr. Bertman. Apologies to those who are lactose intolerant. Clearly we can’t have it all.