16th April 2025
10 Dental Hygiene Myths Debunked
Written by an Islington & Maida Vale Hygienist
We’ve all heard a lot of talk about dental hygiene over the years, but not everything you hear is true.
Some myths can lead to mistakes in your daily oral care, and in the long run, this could cause issues like gum disease, tooth decay, and more.
To clear things up, we spoke with one of the friendly hygienists at Yourdental Wellness in Islington and Maida Vale, who took the time to explain and debunk some of the most common myths that could be affecting your dental health.
Here’s what you need to know to make better, more informed choices about your oral care.
Myth 1: Brushing Harder Cleans Better
We hear a lot from patients that they think the harder you brush, the cleaner your teeth will be. Unfortunately, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Brushing too hard can actually do more harm than good.
Fact: Applying too much pressure when you brush can wear down your tooth enamel and irritate your gums, leading to sensitivity and even gum recession. A gentle, circular motion using a soft-bristled toothbrush is the best way to protect your teeth and gums. Some electric brushes have pressure sensors.
Myth 2: You Only Need to See a Dentist When You Have a Problem
It’s easy to think that a trip to the dentist or hygienist is only necessary when you’re in pain or something’s wrong. But did you know regular check-ups and hygienist visits can help you avoid serious problems in the first place?
Fact: Seeing your hygienist regularly allows them to remove plaque and tartar, helping to prevent gum disease and cavities from developing. It’s much easier (and often less costly) to prevent issues than it is to treat them later on.
A quick visit to Yourdental Wellness Islington or Maida Vale could save you from bigger dental problems down the line!
Myth 3: Sugar Is the Main Cause of Cavities
Of course, sugar isn’t great for your teeth, but it’s not the only culprit when it comes to cavities.
Fact: Cavities form when acids from bacteria in plaque break down enamel, carbohydrates (sugary snacks) are just one of the things that fuel this process. A balanced diet and good oral hygiene habits, like brushing and flossing, are the best way to keep your teeth healthy.
As our hygienist reminds us, “It’s not just about sugar – your overall diet regime matters too.”
Myth 4: Mouthwash Can Replace Brushing and Flossing
Mouthwash does freshen your breath and can reduce bacteria, but it isn’t a substitute for brushing and flossing.
Fact: While mouthwash can help freshen breath, it doesn’t effectively remove plaque or food particles as well as a good brush and floss. These two habits are essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy.
“Think of mouthwash as a nice bonus,” says our Islington and Maida Vale hygienist, “but brushing and flossing should always be your main focus.”
Myth 5: White Teeth Are Always Healthy
We’ve all seen people with bright, white smiles, but white teeth aren’t always a sign of good oral health.
Fact: Teeth can look white and healthy on the outside but still be hiding problems like cavities or gum disease. Regular visits to your dentist or hygienist are essential for catching these issues early, so you’re not left with surprises later.
Our hygienist at Yourdental Wellness adds, “Healthy teeth are about more than just how they look – they need to be looked after properly too.”
Myth 6: If Your Gums Bleed, Stop Flossing
It’s understandable if you stop flossing when your gums bleed, but this is actually the opposite of what you should do.
Fact: Bleeding gums are often a sign of gingivitis, which is the first stage of gum disease. Regular flossing helps to remove plaque and bacteria between your teeth, which can improve gum health and stop the bleeding over time.
Don’t be discouraged if your gums bleed at first. Yourdental Wellness hygienists often tell patients that consistency is key, and regular flossing can work wonders for gum health.
Myth 7: Only Older Adults Get Gum Disease
Gum disease isn’t just a problem for older adults—it can affect people of all ages.
Fact: Poor oral hygiene, smoking, a poor diet, and even certain medical conditions can make anyone susceptible to gum disease. Early intervention from your hygienist is the best way to catch it before it gets worse.
Our Islington and Maida Vale hygienist often says, “Gum disease doesn’t care how old you are – take care of your gums now, and you’ll avoid bigger issues later.”
Myth 8: Baby Teeth Don’t Matter Because They Fall Out
Some parents think that baby teeth aren’t important since they’ll eventually fall out, but neglecting them can cause more harm than good.
Fact: Decayed baby teeth can lead to infections and cause problems for adult teeth. Taking care of baby teeth sets the stage for healthy oral habits as kids grow older.
As one of our hygienists explains, “Good oral hygiene habits should start as soon as the first tooth comes through.”
Myth 9: You Don’t Need to Clean Dental Implants or Dentures
It’s easy to think that dental implants or dentures don’t need as much care as natural teeth, but they do.
Fact: Implants and dentures can still accumulate plaque, which can lead to gum disease and infections. Just like natural teeth, they require regular cleaning and professional care.
Yourdental Wellness in Islington and Maida Vale recommends regular appointments to keep your implants and dentures in top condition.
Myth 10: Professional Cleaning is Only for People with Bad Teeth
Even if you brush and floss regularly, professional cleaning is still essential for your oral health.
Fact: Dental hygiene visits remove plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach areas, preventing future issues from arising. Regular cleaning is beneficial for everyone, whether you have visible issues or not.
Our hygienists in Islington and Maida Vale always remind patients, “Prevention is the key. Regular hygiene appointments help avoid problems before they start.”
Book an Appointment Today at Yourdental Wellness
Don’t let myths stand in the way of your oral health. If you’ve been wondering whether your habits are up to scratch, or if you have any concerns about your dental routine, the teams at Yourdental Wellness in Islington or Maida Vale are here to help. Book a consultation online or call us at 020 4579 9585 (Islington) or 020 7123 8497 today, and let’s keep your smile healthy!
