Logo for East Syracuse NY dentists practice Eastwood Dental Office
New Patients Welcome! Accepting most insurances.

Extended Hours


Blog Post

Dental Health Myths Debunked By Dentist In Syracuse New York

  • By Eastwood Dental Office
  • 20 Oct, 2016
Hello again. Have you ever noticed the abundance of questionable information there is to be found online? This is especially true when it comes to oral health. That’s one of the reasons why you are lucky to have a straight-shooter like Dr. Joan Laura as your go-to dentist here in Syracuse, NY.

Our team will be here to help you keep your mouth clean and your smile looking great at every stage of life. Additionally, we will be here with good information for you and your family as you attempt to maintain excellent oral health along the way.

Keep reading as we expose some common myths about dentistry-related issues, and then be sure to follow up with any questions you might have, and to schedule your next preventive appointment at Eastwood Dental Office!

Myth: Fluoride Is Bad For You

Not true! To receive any harmful effects from fluoride you would need to be exposed to twenty times more than you likely get on a daily basis.

The fluoride you’re exposed to isn’t only safe, it’s essential for good oral health because it rebuilds damaged tooth enamel. Find as many sources of fluoride as you can (such as public tap water, mouthwashes, etc).

Myth: Replacing Your Toothbrush Is Not Essential

Not true. The American Dental Association recommends that you replace your toothbrush approximately every three months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. This will help you optimize the effectiveness of this preventive exercise. Find one you like, but don’t get too attached to the tools of the trade!

Myth: Bleeding When Brushing Is Normal

It is NOT normal. There is no reason whatsoever for bleeding while brushing! It’s not due to brushing too hard. If your gums are bleeding it’s most likely a sign of the early forms of gum disease (gingivitis). And you will want to take action before it gets any worse. Dr. Laura can treat gum disease, but if it gets out of control before you come in for a visit, you may experience unintended consequences.

Myth: Young People Are Not At Risk For Gum Disease

Many people think that gum disease only happens to those advanced in age. In actuality, gum disease is a very real possibility for people of any age or background.

The older you get, your chances increase, and over the course of your life you have a high likelihood of ending up with some form of gum disease.

Myth: Stained Teeth Are Indicators Of Poor Health

Nope! Yellow or stained teeth can make you feel self-conscious about smiling and less likely to socialize. But there really is no correlation between tooth color and health.

Sure, a teeth whitening treatment from Eastwood Dental Office can help improve the look of your smile, but it’s not going to do anything for your wellness. Let us know if you want to get a brighter, whiter smile, but don’t think you are in jeopardy in the meantime.

Myth: Preventive Appointments Are A Waste Of Time

Not if you value your health and happiness. We can help you avoid major oral health issues when you stop by every 6 months for a comprehensive exam and professional teeth cleaning. You deserve the best preventive care around, so don’t put it off any longer.

Myth: You Should Brush Your Teeth Soon After Meals

Don’t brush your teeth right after you eat!

Here’s why: you aren’t going after food particles per se. When you brush your teeth within a half hour of eating you could actually be doing significant damage because your enamel is softened by sugars, acids, etc. That said, you should still be brushing at least twice each day for two minutes per session.

Myth: There Is No Permanent Way To Replace Missing Teeth

This one is definitely not true. Restorative dentistry can work wonders. And dentures are better than ever at our Syracuse dentist’s office.

Fact: We Can Help!

We hope that today’s post has been informative. If you are ready to take the next step, contact us now at (315) 849-9055  to schedule your consultation with Dr. Joan Laura at Eastwood Dental Office of Syracuse, NY! We’ll get you smiling in no time!
Share by: