Little white lies aren’t supposed to hurt anyone, right? But when it comes to protecting your oral health, those sneaky untruths you tell your dentist could harm your smile. Here are some common lies people tell at their appointment, and how your dentist knows you’re not being as honest as you should be!
“I Floss Daily”
You know you’re supposed to floss every day, but sadly most people don’t. Unfortunately, that doesn’t stop them from saying they do. The truth is, though, that yes, your dentist can tell when you skip this step, because your gums are more likely to bleed, and you may be more likely to have gum disease and a a higher rate of interproximal (between the teeth) cavities when you do!
“I Don’t Drink Soda / Alcohol / Coffee Often”
While you may not think anyone can tell what you eat or drink, beverages like coffee, soda, and alcohol can all leave behind visible evidence on your teeth. Acidic drinks can erode enamel, while dark colored liquids can deposit stains that don’t come out by brushing and flossing alone.
“I Never Grind My Teeth”
When it comes to grinding your teeth, telling your dentist you don’t do it isn’t exactly lying, because in many cases patients don’t even realize they are. That’s because for some, they only do it at night, or if they do it when they’re awake they may be doing it subconsciously. Still, if you know you grind your teeth, tell your dentist as soon as possible so you can be fitted for a night guard to protect them! If your dentist sees any signs of bruxism-related wear, take it seriously and wear your guard as prescribed. Grinding your teeth can cause a variety of oral health problems including sensitivity and broken or worn teeth!
“I Don’t Smoke”
You already know smoking cigarettes, vaping, chewing tobacco, and dabbing are all dangerous for not just your oral health but your overall health, too. But if you do any of these things, be honest about it. Even the sneakiest smoker can’t hide the signs of tobacco use from their dentist. No matter how well you brush before your appointment, your smile will give you away in the form of tooth stains, bad breath, and gum inflammation. Thus, when it comes to smoking or any other dangerous habit, it’s in your own best interest to quit, and to not lie to your dentist, or to yourself about how harmful this can be to your health.
Remember, fibbing to your dentist about your oral health habits doesn’t hurt him. Sure, it may make your appointment longer, but the bigger problem is that it can hurt you. Thus, even if you have bad habits that could harm your oral health, always be up front and honest with your dentist, so he can ensure that you are best equipped to protect your smile for a lifetime!
About Our Practice
At My Frederick Dentist, Dr. Andrew Aziz and Dr. Sunghyeok Hong are the dynamic duo who are proud to help Frederick families protect their beautiful smiles. We offer a variety of treatments, from preventive care to cosmetic and emergency dentistry. If you are experiencing any issues with your teeth and gums, don’t be afraid to tell your dentist. Early intervention is the best way to safeguard your smile and ensure your natural teeth last a lifetime.
To schedule an appointment for an exam and cleaning or for any other treatment, please visit our website or call us today at 301-698-9552.