5 Myths about Dental Decay

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1. Cavities Are Inevitable

For many years, the focus had been primarily on repairing teeth as problems developed. However, in more recent years, with advancements in research and understanding, there is much attention given to early intervention. Now, the focus in dentistry when it comes to cavities is examining the process of de-mineralization (cavity formation process) and re-mineralization (strengthening process to provide resistance to decay). With education, water fluoridation, access to care and continued research, this generation of children can potentially escape the battle in fighting cavities.

2. Cavities Are Just For Kids

Adults, even after a long period of having little or no difficulties, may find some challenges in preventing cavities, particularly where there is a presence of gum recession (exposing the root surface of the tooth) and changes in salivary flow. The root surface of the tooth is not as “hard” and “strong” as the enamel of the tooth and is much more easily damaged in the de-mineralization process. Salivary flow is a concern because it provides essential minerals that aid in the re-mineralization process of the enamel. Salivary flow may be reduced significantly due to the natural changes that occur as we age. Additionally, it may
be interrupted by the regular use of products that tend to dry out the mouth, including home care products (ie: alcohol-based mouthrinses).

3. Decay Begins On The Inside Of The Tooth

This myth dates back to the 1700’s when it was believed that “tooth worms”
originated from within the tooth and ate their way through to the outside. It is now
understood that dental decay is an infectious transmissible disease that starts
with the de-mineralization process of the tooth surface.

4. Cavities Are Caused By Eating Candy Alone

While eating candy and sweets is not healthy for our teeth, it is not the sole
culprit in tooth decay. Research has shown it is fermentable carbohydrates which
specific bacteria in the plaque thrive on, resulting in the acidic environment in the
mouth which dissolve the minerals in the tooth surface leading to de-mineralized
areas. Fermentable carbohydrates would include cooked starches, simple
sugars, and natural sugars in foods such as fruit.

5. In Pregnancy, The Mother’s Teeth Are Left Weak

This originated as the myth that a woman loses a tooth for every child she has.
The myth continues on to claim that the unborn child draws the calcium out of the
teeth leaving them brittle and weak. It is true, many changes may occur in a
pregnant woman’s mouth. However, it is factors related to the pregnancy which
can predispose certain conditions, not the pregnancy itself. Certain factors that
would predispose a pregnant woman to cavities include poor oral hygiene,
frequent snacking and morning sickness. Hormone changes can affect the gum
tissue causing the gums to become more easily irritated by the bacteria and
plaque that accumulate in the mouth, leading to gingivitis. Therefore, practicing
meticulous oral hygiene, balanced nutrition and seeing your hygienist for a
professional teeth cleaning (even in pregnancy) is essential in minimizing,
perhaps eliminating, dental health concerns.

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