There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about teeth and gums. Some of them can be quite harmless while others can make you misunderstand proper oral care. That's why it is extremely important to check the information and don't trust unproven misbeliefs. In this article, we have gathered eight common myths about oral health you shouldn't believe in.

1.Teeth whitening can ruin your teeth
Many people think that teeth whitening is an aggressive procedure that can destroy your tooth enamel. Indeed, after the bleaching, you can experience slight teeth sensitivity but it usually disappears in a few days. Today, in-office teeth whitening procedures and teeth whitening kits that are approved by dentists are completely safe. But if you use home remedies or questionable teeth whitening options, the results can be unpredictable.

2. Cavities occur only in children and people with a sweet tooth
Indeed, children and people with a sweet tooth are more likely to develop tooth decay. But you should know that both children and adults who don't maintain proper oral hygiene can also get cavities. The point is that tooth decay occurs when the bacteria in your mouth multiply and produce acids that soften and wear out your tooth enamel. That's why it is essential to pay sufficient attention to your oral hygiene.

3. Gum bleeding during tooth brushing is normal
If you have noticed that your gums are bleeding during tooth brushing, it can be a sign of gum disease. Gum disease is a condition that occurs when your gums become inflamed. The most common symptoms of this condition include gum bleeding, swelling, redness, bad breath, and gum recession. Without timely and proper treatment, gum disease can progress and lead to the development of severe complications like pus between your teeth, loose teeth, and tooth loss.

4. There is no reason to visit a dentist often
Some people think that there is no reason to visit a dentist if they don't have any symptoms. But the truth is that many oral issues can occur and develop without any obvious symptoms. For example, a cavity can be asymptomatic until the decay reaches the pulp that contains blood vessels and nerve endings. You should understand that it is much easier to treat many oral issues in the initial stages. That's why it is better to visit the best dentist at least twice a year.

5. You can treat tooth decay at home
Even though there are certain home remedies and painkillers that can help cope with toothache, there are no options for treating tooth decay at home. You should understand that the dentist should remove the damaged part of the tooth and replace it with a dental filling. Without proper treatment, your cavity can progress and even ruin the whole tooth. If you already experience a toothache caused by a cavity, don't delay your dental appointment.

6. Gum disease affects only smokers and elderly
There are a lot of factors that can contribute to the development of gum disease. The most common of them is poor oral hygiene. Smoking, a family history of gum disease, diabetes, and other factors can affect your oral health and cause gum disease. However, you should know that both children and adults can develop gum disease. As mentioned above, it can lead to severe complications if left untreated.

7. Shifted teeth can be improved only in children
Indeed, it can be quite easier to align shifted teeth in children. However, there are a lot of options for adults that can help straighten your teeth and get the smile you want. You can get metal or ceramic braces, lingual braces, or clear aligners like Invisalign. Even though it can take more time to straighten teeth in adults, the results can be really remarkable.

8. Chocolate causes tooth decay
Many people think that sweets cause tooth decay. However, sweets only create a suitable environment for bacteria that lead to cavities. But you should also know that dark chocolate can even improve the condition of your teeth. The point is that it contains polyphenols, natural chemicals that can limit oral bacteria. Additionally, chocolate has antioxidants that can help prevent the development of gum disease. That's why a few pieces of dark chocolate a day is a quite good idea especially for people with a sweet tooth.

The bottom line
It is important to understand that the condition of your teeth and gums depends on your oral hygiene, diet, and professional dental care. That's why you need to eat healthy foods, brush and floss your teeth thoroughly, and visit your dentist on a regular basis.