30 Secrets Your Dentist Will Never Tell You

3 years ago

1. Visiting Dentist Every 6 Months - is it really necessary?

Image source ShutterstockEven though dentists try to book you in for a check up twice a year, once a year is actually enough if you pay attention to oral hygiene at home. However, whenever you have unusual oral pain or discomfort, then you should immediately contact the surgery before it worsens.=

2. Tongue Piercings Are A No-No - can chip teeth ....

Image source ShutterstockYour mouth contains bacteria - it's a fact. If you don't take dental hygiene seriously, when you have mouth or tongue piercings, those germs will make their way into the holes. This can cause a nasty and painful infection so it's imperative you clean your whole mouth properly if it is internally decorated.

3. Chewing Gum Doesn't Look Good - but it's beneficial ....

Image source ShutterstockChewing gum with your mouth wide open is not a good look, to say the least. That doesn't mean you should keep away from the gum. A sweetener in sugar free chewing gum, called xylitol, can help fight bad bacteria and keep things clean. It will also have no adverse effect on your gums.

4 Root Canals Not Risk Free -can cause chronic illness....

Image source ShutterstockRoot canals and invasive procedures such as tooth extractions have been known to cause internal infections in some patients. The danger is that the patients can show no signs or symptoms around the infection in the mouth. The infection festers and can drain the immune system, causing chronic health issues.

5. Bleeding Gums - could be sign of diabetes ....

Image source ShutterstockDentists see so many people on a regular basis with bleeding gums that, if it's not severe, they tend to brush it off and advise you to do a better job with your flossing routine. Few dentists will mention that, if you do pay a lot of attention to your oral hygiene, bleeding gums can be a sign of diabetes.

6. Teeth Bleaching Issue - can strip enamel ....

Image source ShutterstockTeeth whitening has become a such a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure that no one bats an eyelid when you say you've had it done. Dentists like to promote it as it's a good money earner and might purposely fail to mention the damage whitening can do to the enamel of your teeth.

7. Mercury Fillings Are Unhealthy - could be toxic ....

Image source ShutterstockThe substance used for tooth fillings is mercury amalgam and it may not be entirely safe. 'Mercury in dental amalgam, one of the most toxic substances on Earth, has been scientifically proven to leech every time a patient chews on a mercury amalgam filling,' says dentist Dr Panahpour. There are plenty alternative filling materials on the market so not to worry.

8. There Are Alternatives To A Root Canal - cheaper option

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When a dentist informs you need a root canal it's not up for discussion as you believe it's the only and final course of action. Dentists earn a good fee for implementing this treatment and might not mention the alternative which is having the tooth extracted. Neither sound great, we know.

9. You Should Spend More Than 2 Minutes Brushing - should be 3 to 5 ....

Image source ShutterstockEven people who brush twice a day might be getting it wrong. Experts in the field have intimated that it takes at least 3 minutes to clean every tooth, the gums and the tongue. The difference in that extra minute or so could save you money as you might not need to see the dental hygienist as often.

10. Your Wisdom Teeth Could Stay - dentists keen to take them out ....

Image source Shutterstock

The majority of people have their wisdom teeth removed early in life on recommendation from their dentists because they are told they may become problematic even if they are not right now. Patients who decline the advise might never have a single issue with them for the whole of their lives. It's a case of should they take the risk?

11. Dentists Don't Agree On Treatments - each think they're right ....

Image source ShutterstockWe'd all like to think there is a clear correct answer regarding our dental treatment. Research has shown that up to 9 out of 10 dentists agree to disagree. It's never a bad thing to get a second opinion if you feel uncomfortable with the advice from your health professional.

12. Some People Need More Anaesthetic - are you a smoker?

Image source ShutterstockThere are many reasons why adjustments are made to the amount of anaesthetic administered to a dental patient in order to numb the mouth. Genetics can play a part as can smoking. Occasionally, too much is given and it takes a few hours for the numb feeling to disperse.

13. Metal Fillings Last Longer - but they're uglier ....

Image source ShutterstockDentists typically recommend the type of filling they specialize in and conveniently leave out some details. One piece of information that may not get a mention is that metal fillings, as opposed to ceramic, are more durable through the years. Ceramic are quite a bit more pricey.

14. They Ask Questions To Calm You Down - you won't realise ....

Image source ShutterstockA visit to the dentist case cause many people real anxiety and is a major source of stress for patients of any age. As it is easier for dentists to work quickly and more efficiently when you are relaxed, they strike up a conversation or ask you questions as a distraction and to put you at ease.

15. Too Much Fluoride Can Be Bad - could damage teeth ....

Image source ShutterstockFluorosis is the term used when your teeth deform due to an overload of fluoride, a mineral commonly found in toothpaste and tap water. Since some people are unnecessarily concerned with this rare condition, dentists don't tend to mention it or downplay it when asked.

16. Dentistry Has Changed - your practice may be stuck in time

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Dental technology has made significant advancement over the last 50 years. While some dental offices keep up with modern advancements, others stay where they feel more comfortable, even if that means not offering the patient the latest technology.

17. Becoming A Dentist Is Hard Work - and costs a lot ....

Image source ShutterstockPeople often joke about the easy life of a dentist, how they earn big bucks and it's less stressful than being a doctor. However, just like becoming any other kind of doctor, it's a major commitment and requires years of studying to gain the degrees, certifications and experience, as well as having to fork out a small fortune for the training.

18. Oil Pulling Works - dentist wouldn't recommend though ....

Image source ShutterstockOil pulling is the practice of swishing edible oil around your mouth to clean and whiten your teeth. An ancient practice with its roots in India, oil pulling helps to whiten your teeth and contribute towards overall health. Neither a dentist nor a hygienist would ever recommend this at the surgery.

19. Soda Is Not Good For Your Teeth - too much fizz ....

Image source ShutterstockDentists often tell patients to cut down on fizzy drinks because of the sugar content but they often forget to mention that the carbonation itself can be harmful to your teeth. The elevated levels of acid in any carbonated beverage pose minimal risk to tooth enamel but it is something to bear in mind.

20. Sugar Is Not The Only Culprit - citrus fruits are guilty ....

Image source ShutterstockWe are all used to dentists telling us we should cut down on sugar for the health of our teeth and gums. here are other foods as well, which they don't mention, that can be harmful to our choppers such as starchy foods including pasta and chips as well as citrus, like lemons, limes and grapefruits. Even too many apples creates a lot of acid so stick to one a day.

21. Quit Telling The Dentist You Don't Like Them - doesn't make the feel good ....

Image source PinterestCan you imagine being told every working day, at least a few times, how much the patient hates you? It comes out of people being anxious and frightened to visit the surgery but bear a thought for the dentist - they are human and they are providing a service you need!

22. When To Change Your Toothbrush - it never crops up!

Image source PinterestToothbrushes should be changed every 3 months but you won't hear your dentist telling you this. They will just assume you know and will concentrate more on how to brush and how often. As your brush harbour's germs, pour boiled water from a kettle over it at least once a week.

23. Dentist Knows If You Smoke - don't bother hiding it ....

Image source ShutterstockPeople who smoke sometimes try to cover it up with mouthwash or mints and might conveniently hide the truth from the dentist. It won't wash though as the stench is steeped in the gum tissue and tissues in their mouth. Be honest, for your own good.

24. Bad Breath - more than 'normal' ....could spell trouble

Image source ShutterstockDentists will generally ignore any unsavoury odour from your mouth, usually caused by plaque. However, there could be something more serious going on with a stomach issue. Unless you ask your dentist's advice, they will accept the odour is all part of the job!

25. Mouthwash Isn't A Given - temporarily minty ....

Image source ShutterstockYou probably were unaware to know that a mouthwash which contains alcohol can dry out your mouth. You'll be all nice and minty for an hour or so but, if you do suffer from bad breath, it will come right back at you. Rather than mask the issue, find out the reason.

26. Old-school Dental Technology - some dentists don't want to move on ....

Image source ShutterstockIn the 1970s, 'waterpiks' (a water-shooting device) were very popular. Each tooth is surrounded by a putrid, germy moat of saliva and if you replace that moat each day, you’ll go a long way towards keeping your mouth clean and your gums pink and healthy. Some dentists stick to this older device as it's what they are used to and they know it works. Others prefer the latest technology.

27. They blame The Parents - it's not the kid's fault ....

Image source ShutterstockIt is the duty of a parent to be responsible for their little one's teeth. They may dress their kids in designer clothes but allow them to eat sweets and consume fizzy drinks to their hearts content. Dentists get really annoyed at the lack of supervision and have to bite their tongues not to tell a sensitive guardian of their reckless behaviour.

28. There's A Trick When Whitening Teeth - and it's fluoride ....

Image source ShutterstockIt's understandable to be hesitant about whitening your teeth, if you've previously done it and it's left your gnashers very sensitive. A secret up a dentist's sleeve is to use a fluoride rinse or gel before and after the treatment. You will find there's probably hardly a hint of sensitivity.

29. Dentist May Recommend Insurance - but it doesn't cover everything ...

Image source ShutterstockIf you’ve taken your dental practice's advice to register with an insurance company to cover the cost of treatment, you could be left disappointed. They may not cover implants bit they might shell out for dentures. In this day and age, dentures are a last resort so how can this make sense?

30. Headache That Won't Go Away - dentist may have the answer

Image source ShutterstockMisaligned teeth can cause intermittent migraine headaches which can be very draining for the person. A dentist would not be able to make a diagnosis without a conversation with the patient, at which time a cure could be found which may involve braces or removing over-crowded teeth.

30 Secrets Your Dentist Will Never Tell You

1. Visiting Dentist Every 6 Months - is it really necessary?

2. Tongue Piercings Are A No-No - can chip teeth ....

3. Chewing Gum Doesn't Look Good - but it's beneficial ....

4 Root Canals Not Risk Free -can cause chronic illness....

5. Bleeding Gums - could be sign of diabetes ....

6. Teeth Bleaching Issue - can strip enamel ....

7. Mercury Fillings Are Unhealthy - could be toxic ....

8. There Are Alternatives To A Root Canal - cheaper option

9. You Should Spend More Than 2 Minutes Brushing - should be 3 to 5 ....

10. Your Wisdom Teeth Could Stay - dentists keen to take them out ....

11. Dentists Don't Agree On Treatments - each think they're right ....

12. Some People Need More Anaesthetic - are you a smoker?

13. Metal Fillings Last Longer - but they're uglier ....

14. They Ask Questions To Calm You Down - you won't realise ....

15. Too Much Fluoride Can Be Bad - could damage teeth ....

16. Dentistry Has Changed - your practice may be stuck in time

17. Becoming A Dentist Is Hard Work - and costs a lot ....

18. Oil Pulling Works - dentist wouldn't recommend though ....

19. Soda Is Not Good For Your Teeth - too much fizz ....

20. Sugar Is Not The Only Culprit - citrus fruits are guilty ....

21. Quit Telling The Dentist You Don't Like Them - doesn't make the feel good ....

22. When To Change Your Toothbrush - it never crops up!

23. Dentist Knows If You Smoke - don't bother hiding it ....

24. Bad Breath - more than 'normal' ....could spell trouble

25. Mouthwash Isn't A Given - temporarily minty ....

26. Old-school Dental Technology - some dentists don't want to move on ....

27. They blame The Parents - it's not the kid's fault ....

28. There's A Trick When Whitening Teeth - and it's fluoride ....

29. Dentist May Recommend Insurance - but it doesn't cover everything ...

30. Headache That Won't Go Away - dentist may have the answer

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