Ten things people believe about teeth that aren't true

Ten common beliefs about teeth, and the reality behind each one.

1. “You only need the dentist when something hurts”

Pain is usually a late sign of decay that already needs extensive treatment — often a root canal or a crown, both of which cost more than a regular check-up. Regular visits catch decay and gum disease early, while they’re cheap and simple to treat.

2. “Baby teeth don’t matter — they fall out anyway”

Baby teeth hold space in the jaw for the adult teeth underneath, and most children still have some baby teeth until around age 13. An infection or injury to a baby tooth can affect the permanent tooth forming beneath it. The first dental visit should happen around 12 months, or six months after the first tooth appears.

3. “Oral health is separate from general health”

It isn’t. Gum disease and diabetes affect each other in both directions, and untreated decay can progress to infection that spreads beyond the mouth. Your mouth reflects a lot about what’s happening in the rest of your body.

4. “Brushing harder cleans better”

Technique matters more than pressure. Brushing too hard damages enamel and gums over time — a gentle, thorough technique with a soft or medium brush works better.

5. “Yellow teeth are unhealthy teeth”

Teeth have an outer enamel layer and a yellowish dentin layer underneath. If enamel is naturally thinner, more dentin colour shows through — that’s not decay. It’s a different thing from the yellow-brown staining caused by a build-up of plaque and tartar.

6. “Flossing isn’t really necessary”

A toothbrush can’t reach the tight gaps between teeth. Floss or interdental brushes clear plaque from those spaces that brushing alone misses.

7. “A professional clean strips away enamel”

A clean removes plaque and tartar, not enamel — which is the hardest substance in the body and isn’t affected by routine cleaning.

8. “A hard toothbrush cleans better”

Hard bristles are more likely to damage gums and enamel. Soft or medium bristles, used properly, clean just as well without the risk.

9. “You can’t have dental work done while pregnant”

Most routine dental treatment is safe during pregnancy, and the second trimester is generally a good time for elective work. X-rays, when clinically needed, can be taken safely with the usual protective measures.

10. “Toothpaste with special crystals or particles works better”

Abrasive additives can wear away tooth surface over time. A plain fluoride toothpaste, used correctly, is all most people need.