Are You A Dental Health Wiz? Test Your Knowledge!

We know there is a lot of misinformation floating around about oral health and dental hygiene. Do you think that you understand how to keep your teeth and gums healthy and well-maintained? Bite into this true or false quiz to test your dental know-how and maybe learn a few tricks and tips for keeping your oral health at the ultimate level. 

If Your Gums Are Bleeding, It's A Sign You're Too Rough and Should Leave Them Alone 

FALSE. When your gums bleed during brushing or flossing, it's actually a sign that you might need to floss and brush more frequently, unless directed otherwise but your dentist. It's a good rule of thumb to floss at least once a day and brush at least twice. If bleeding gums persist as a problem, there may be a build-up of plaque or you may have a vitamin deficiency. Be sure to mention any concerns about bleeding gums to your dentist. 

The Best Time To Brush Your Teeth Is Right After Eating Or Drinking

TRICK QUESTION. This is one is sometimes true and sometimes false and mostly depends on what you're eating and drinking. If you've consumed a lot of carbohydrate-rich foods, brushing directly after you finish could help keep bacteria from attacking the enamel on your teeth. However, if you ate or drank something highly acidic such as orange, grapefruit, or any citrus fruit juice we recommend waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing to protect your enamel. Brushing too soon can do more harm than good by grinding in those acids deeper into the tooth enamel. Right after consuming something with a high acid content, rinse your mouth with water, then brush at least 1/2 an hour later.

The More Time You Spend Brushing & Flossing, The Healthier Your Teeth & Gums Will Be. 

FALSE. While you might think that quantity leads to quality, it isn't always the case. While some believe that brushing and flossing for longer periods of time would lead to a healthier smile, there is also the concept of 'too much of a good thing'. Experts have recommended using a light touch by not applying too much pressure, and doing so for no longer than two minutes at a time. If you're unsure about how to do it, talk to your dentist about it at your next visit. 

It's Okay If You've Been Lax About Brushing & Flossing As Long As You Get In Extra Brushing & Flossing Right Before The Dentist. 

FALSE. I mean this one was probably a given but you would be surprised how many people really think that cramming in a dozen extra brushing and flossing sessions before your dentist appointment will hide the lack of care for the last however many weeks or months. Although your hygienist and dentist probably appreciate a clean mouth when you arrive, there's no making up for neglecting your teeth between professional cleanings. Get into the habit of brushing at least twice each day and flossing at least once every day. You won’t feel like you need to get in a make-up flossing session before your next cleaning.

If You Are Prone To Getting Cavities, Blame It On The Genes. 

TRUE, to an extent. Im some cases, your dental health can be partially predetermined by heredity. A combination of how well you take care of your oral health and your genetic makeup determines the overall health of your teeth and mouth. According to a CNN report, approximately 60% of your risk for tooth decay can come from genetic factors. If your parents or grandparents have good teeth, that doesn't give you a license to be lazy when it comes to brushing and flossing. The reverse can also be true; if you are genetically predisposed to tooth decay or other dental health ailments, you can still limit the effects of these by taking good care of your teeth! 

Using Sugar-Free Gum Can Help Keep Your Teeth Clean 

TRUE. You may think this news is too good to be true but the science has weighed in and the consensus is that sugar-free gum can help prevent cavities between brushing. This is because it helps remove food particles from the surface of your teeth, and increases saliva production which also helps wash away food particles and protect your teeth and gums. Other sugar substitutes such as xylitol can also help to remove excess grime sticking to your teeth after meals. 

If You Don't Have Any Cavities, You Won't Get Gum Disease

FALSE. Even if you are super thorough about avoiding sugars, habits such as smoking, being too stressed, certain medications, obesity, heart disease, family history, and poor or lacking nutrition can all cause gum disease. 3/4 people in the USA have gum disease. Treating it early can help lower the risk of tooth loss.