It is estimated that as many as 91% of adults have at least one cavity. With that many adults walking around with cavities, it would seem that cavities would be understood by adults, and adults would know how to prevent them. However, that is not the case. In fact, most people do not understand what cavities are, how cavities form and how to prevent cavities.
If you are one of those people who don’t understand cavities, cavity growth and cavity prevention, read on for the three most common myths about cavities.
Myths about Cavities
One well-known myth about cavities is that sugar is the main reason cavities form. Of course, sugar is one way to increase your risk of calories, but it is not the only reason cavities form. Other foods can cause cavities as well. Spicy foods, carbohydrates, juices, sodas, coffee and tea can all lead to cavity development. However, if you are a healthy eater, but you don’t brush your teeth regularly, you are also putting yourself at risk for cavity development.
Another common myth about cavities is that if you have a cavity, you will know that you have one because cavities are painful. However, cavities when they are new are not painful at all. It is only when a cavity grows larger and hits a nerve- when that happens, you may experience pain that travels throughout your entire mouth.
Perhaps one of the most damaging myths about cavities is that if a child has a cavity, there is no sense worrying about it because the tooth will eventually fall out. However, if a child’s tooth (even a baby tooth) has a cavity, it can affect the child’s entire mouth. The tooth infection could spread to other teeth within the child’s mouth, as well as the child’s gums, which could lead to additional infections in the body.
If you have questions about your mouth, or you want to talk to us about your dental health, be sure and give us a call. We will be happy to schedule you an appointment.