Many people have been known to stretch the truth a bit to their dentist. Whether you exaggerate on how much you floss or claim that you didn’t chip your tooth as a result of your ice chewing habit, plenty of people out there are guilty. However, these fibs aren’t usually effective. Your dentist in Harkey Heights isn’t as easily fooled as you may think. Continue reading to learn about which lies your dentist knows that you’re telling.
Lie 1: I Don’t Smoke Cigarettes
Since tobacco is so notorious for staining your teeth, it is often apparent to your dentist right away if you are a smoker. They are also likely to notice nicotine stains on your fingers or the smell of smoke on your clothes. Smoking increases your risk of nearly every type of cancer, including those of both the mouth and throat. It also can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss. Talk to your doctor, friends, and family about the best ways that you can quit.
Lie 2: I Never Drink Soda
Soda contains high levels of both acid and sugar. This damages your protective enamel that coats the outside of your teeth. Soda also has been linked to other health problems. This sugary beverage, as well as sweet, acidic juices should be saved for occasion. When you do choose to have one, you should rinse your mouth with water afterwards.
Lie 3: I Floss Every Day
Even though brushing removes plaque from your teeth, there are certain areas that your brush cannot reach and clean effectively. This is why it is so important to floss regularly. Flossing removes plaque from hard to reach places between the teeth and beneath the gumline. If your gums are inflamed, this is a red flag that you are not flossing your teeth as often or thoroughly as you should be.
Lie 4: That Doesn’t Hurt
Even if you feel like you can tough out discomfort, your dentist can still tell if you are feeling any pain. Your eyes flinch and clench shut, and your tongue and legs are likely to tighten. If you’re feeling any pain, speak up to your dentist. They may be able to use a topical anesthetic or allow you to take certain pain medications before your next appointment.
Lie 5: I Only Drink Alcohol Occasionally
Because alcohol has such a distinct smell, your dentist can tell if you are a heavy drinker. People who drink often also tend to have very dry mouths because alcohol interferes with the salivary glands, reducing the saliva production in the mouth.
Next time you go in for a cleaning and checkup, don’t feel the need to lie. Your dentist knows when you are. The best thing you can do is come clean so that you can work towards improving your oral health,
About the Practice
At Market Heights Family Dental, you have two highly skilled dentists providing quality care to patients in Harker Heights. Dr. Meredith Mosier earned her dental doctorate from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Dr. Jennifer Hoang completed her dental training at the University of Texas School of Dentistry at Houston. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (254) 699-3565.