When it comes to dental care, it’s normal to feel a little anxious or unsure, especially with all the myths floating around about different treatments. At Church Road Dental Care Centre, our Teddington dentists want to set the record straight and help you feel confident in your oral health decisions. Below, we’ll bust some of the most common dental myths and explain why things aren’t always as they seem.
Myth 1: Dental X-rays Are Harmful to Teeth
One of the biggest myths out there is that dental X-rays are dangerous because of radiation exposure. But here’s the truth: the radiation from dental X-rays is incredibly low, and modern technology makes them safer than ever! Our Teddington dentists use X-rays to catch things like cavities, bone loss, root lesions, cysts in the jawbone or impacted teeth—problems that aren’t always visible during a regular exam. The tiny amount of radiation is far outweighed by the benefits of catching these issues early.
Myth 2: Braces Are Only for Cosmetic Purposes
Think braces are just about straightening your teeth for cosmetics? Think again! While braces do give you a great-looking smile, they’re also important for fixing bite problems that causes tooth wear, reducing overcrowding, and improving access for better cleaning that can prevent gum disease. If left untreated, these issues can lead to discomfort, worn and chipped teeth, and problems with hygiene leading to staining, bad breath and tooth loss. Whether you’re a teen or an adult, braces can make a huge difference in both your oral health and your smile.
Myth 3: Teeth Whitening Damages Your Enamel
Worried that whitening your teeth will ruin your enamel? Don’t be! Professional teeth whitening treatments done by your dentist are safe and effective. We use carefully regulated bleaching agents to protect your enamel while giving you that bright smile you’re after. Over-the-counter products can sometimes be more abrasive if not used correctly, but at Church Road Dental Care Centre, we offer safe, proven whitening treatments that won’t harm your teeth.
Myth 4: Root Canals Are Painful
Root canals have a bad reputation for being painful, but the reality is they’re not much different from getting a filling. In fact, they’re often done to relieve pain caused by an infected or damaged tooth. Thanks to modern dental techniques and anaesthesia, most patients feel little to no discomfort during the procedure. If you’ve got tooth pain, avoiding a root canal can make things worse, so don’t put it off!
Myth 5: You Only Need to Visit the Dentist If You Have a Problem
Many people think they only need to see the dentist when something’s wrong, but that’s not true! Regular check-ups are key to keeping your teeth and gums healthy, but also for checking the health of your oral soft tissues. Our dentists carry out an Oral Cancer Screening at every check-up. Even if you’re not experiencing any pain, routine visits help catch potential problems early, which can save you time and money down the road. At our Teddington dental practice, we recommend coming in for a check-up twice a year to stay on top of your oral health.
Knowing the facts about dental procedures can help take away any fears or concerns you might have. At Church Road Dental Care Centre in Teddington, we’re all about providing clear, accurate information so you can feel great about your dental care. Whether you need a routine check-up or have questions about a specific treatment, our friendly team is here to help. Reach out today to book an appointment and give your smile the care it deserves!
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