Dental Myths can not only be comical, they can also be dangerous. Let’s take a look at two more common dental myths and why it is important that you no longer believe in them.
Myth 9: “My parents both lost their teeth, so my problems must be hereditary.”
Just because your parents lost their teeth doesn’t mean you will, too. Are some dental problems hereditary? Yes. How often is the heredity the reason that you have a dental problem? Very, very, seldom.
Only in a very small percentage of cases is heredity the reason that a patient loses his teeth. Just because Mom and Dad lost their teeth due to gum disease doesn’t mean that you will. It’s more likely they didn’t care for their teeth, or didn’t know how to. The purpose of this book is for you to know how to care for your teeth so you don’t lose them.
Myth 10: “Lose a tooth for every child.”
I’ve heard this from many a mother. There is no evidence of any sort that supports the concept that for every baby that is born, you will lose a tooth. Yes, it is true that your body does go through physiologic changes during pregnancy. That’s normal, but it doesn’t mean you are destined to lose a tooth or even should. It is a falsehood that the fetus that fetus takes calcium from the mother.
The truth is that the only way to preserve your teeth, your dental health and your overall health is by regularly seeing your dentist to help prevent cavities and plaque build up.
