Dentists Debunk 15 More Teeth Myths | Debunked

Summary

In this video, Dr. John Yoo, a pediatric dentist, and Dr. Jason Lin, an orthodontist, debunk common myths about dental care. They address topics like the importance of baby teeth, the role of fluoride in tooth health, the risks of acidic fruits and sodas, and the benefits of retainers after braces. The doctors also clarify misconceptions about fillings, wisdom teeth, root canals, and braces for adults. Their advice emphasizes the importance of regular dental care, the need for preventive treatments like cleanings, and maintaining good habits to preserve oral health throughout life.

Takeaways

• 😀 Baby teeth are important for oral development and should not be neglected.
• 😀 Acidic fruits may temporarily whiten teeth but can weaken enamel and lead to cavities over time.
• 😀 Fillings do not last forever; they may need to be replaced due to wear, improper sealing, or new cavities.
• 😀 Some cavities can be reversed if they're limited to the enamel, but once they reach the dentin, they usually require a filling.
• 😀 Braces are not just for crooked teeth; they also correct functional issues like overbites, underbites, and tooth crowding.
• 😀 A knocked-out tooth can often be saved if reimplanted within an hour and kept in milk or saliva.
• 😀 Diet sodas are acidic and can erode enamel, leading to cavities, despite lacking sugar.
• 😀 Regular dental cleanings are important to prevent plaque buildup and detect dental issues early.
• 😀 Retainers may need to be worn for life to maintain teeth position after braces or aligners.
• 😀 Root canal-treated teeth can still feel pressure, despite losing the nerve, as the surrounding ligaments remain intact.
• 😀 Not everyone has wisdom teeth; some people are born without them, and others may need them removed due to complications.
• 😀 You can get braces or aligners at any age, and they can improve both the appearance and function of your teeth.
• 😀 Hydrogen peroxide and baking soda are not effective toothpaste replacements as they lack fluoride, which is essential for tooth health.
• 😀 Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits can help you keep your teeth for a lifetime, even as you age.

Q & A

Are baby teeth important for a child's development?

Yes, baby teeth are crucial as they act as placeholders for adult teeth, assist in speech development, and help maintain proper jaw alignment. Losing them too early can lead to dental and psychological issues.

Can cavities be reversed?

Some cavities, particularly those limited to the enamel layer of the tooth, can remineralize with proper care, like fluoride use. However, deeper cavities that reach the dentin require dental treatment and are generally irreversible.

Is it safe to use acidic fruits to whiten teeth?

While acidic fruits can temporarily brighten teeth, they erode the enamel, weakening the teeth and increasing the risk of cavities. It's better to use professional whitening treatments.

Are braces only for crooked teeth?

No, braces are also used to correct functional issues like underbites, overbites, crossbites, and spacing issues. They help improve both appearance and dental health.

What should you do if a tooth is knocked out?

If a tooth is knocked out, it should be reinserted into the socket immediately if possible, or placed in milk to preserve the root's cells. Quick action within an hour significantly increases the chances of saving the tooth.

Do diet sodas cause cavities?

Yes, even though diet sodas don't contain sugar, their high acidity can erode enamel and contribute to cavities. The pH levels in diet sodas can still damage your teeth over time.

Do fillings last forever?

No, fillings do not last forever. They can wear down, crack, or become loose. Over time, decay can develop beneath the filling, requiring it to be replaced.

Are retainers necessary for life?

Retainers are often needed long-term, even for life, to keep teeth in place after braces. They also provide protection for teeth, especially in people who grind their teeth.

Do you need to floss before brushing your teeth?

It doesn't matter whether you floss before or after brushing, but flossing before brushing makes sense as it removes debris between teeth, allowing the brush to clean better afterward. The most important thing is to floss regularly.

Is it true that everyone has wisdom teeth?

No, not everyone develops wisdom teeth. These third molars are the most commonly congenitally missing teeth, and some people may never have them.

Can you still feel anything in a tooth after a root canal?

Yes, you can still feel pressure in a tooth after a root canal, as the surrounding ligaments that attach the tooth to the bone are still intact. However, the tooth should no longer feel pain from infection.

Can you get braces as an adult?

Absolutely! Braces are not limited to children and teenagers. Adults can benefit from braces or aligners for both functional and aesthetic reasons. Compliance is key when using aligners, as they require consistent wear.

Will you lose all of your teeth as you age?

Not necessarily. With proper oral hygiene, some people maintain their teeth well into old age. Genetics and good dental care play a significant role in preserving your teeth as you age.