Dentist! That single word that strikes fear in children and adults alike. Many of us are unaware or come to think that going to the dentist is painful.
These are the professionals who take care of the teeth and the prevention of oral diseases. But in any case, what is, or what does a dentist do?
What is a dentist?
The dentist or dentist is the professional in charge of preventing, detecting and curing pathologies related to the mouth and teeth.
5 facts about dentistry
- If you stop flossing, you may stop cleaning up to 40% of your mouth. Even if you have a great toothbrush, don’t forget to floss for better oral health.
- Cavities are felt: Generally, if they do not touch the nerve, cavities are not felt or hurt if they are small. But if it touches the nerve, you need root canal treatment (remove damaged tissue from the tooth).
- It is not good to apply so much force when brushing: This only manages to hurt the gums; however, the practice of forceful brushing has become popular. This with the belief that it would favor better cleaning. But nothing further from reality.
- Permanent teeth are forever: Nothing is forever, and this applies equally to permanent teeth. Also, they last from 5 to 15 years and need frequent revision.
- Toothbrushes should be changed every 3 months. It is best to change it at that time, since bacteria accumulate between the bristles of the brushes.
If you have gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) the time in which you should change your brush is 4 to 5 weeks.
5 myths about dentistry
- Cleanings damage teeth. This is another of the most common myths due to lack of information. Dental cleanings are used to remove tartar and plaque from the teeth.
- Baking soda to clean teeth. A popular mistake for people trying to whiten their teeth on their own and not seeking professional help. This method can damage your teeth, since the baking soda wears down the enamel and erodes it.
- It is good to brush your teeth after eating. Although it is well known that brushing after eating is recommended, it is not so recommended.
This happens because after ingestion, there is a change in the pH (it is a measure of acidity or alkalinity). Disturbing this acid can damage tooth enamel.
- Braces are for kids only. It is the most common to see children and adolescents with braces. But it is increasingly normal to see adults with orthodontics and taking more care of their oral health.
- Going to the dentist hurts. No! It doesn’t hurt, extraction treatments are done with local anesthesia. It is a common fear of people who, when listening to the dentist, associate it with pain.
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Importance on oral health
The mouth is the main entrance to the body. Everything we ingest on a daily basis passes through it. Maintaining oral health is of the utmost importance so that our teeth can do their job.
Incorrect oral health would lead us to contract diseases, if we do not take care of our teeth and gums. Periodically visit your dentist, do not miss your appointments, your health is the most important thing.