Oral health myths and realities-5

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his is the fifth of the oral health myths series and their related facts.

Myth1: Tooth decay is mainly caused by sugar.

Fact

Not exactly but certainly sugar plays a primary role in tooth decay although not directly. Tooth decay happens when bacteria in the mouth feeds on sugars an individual consumes to produce acids which combine with saliva resulting into plaque buildup on the teeth. It is the acids in the plaque plus the length of time on the tooth surface which result into the resorption of the tooth walls leading into cavities called caries.

Myth 2:  Sugar is the only thing that causes cavities.

Fact

 It is the acid produced by bacteria in the mouth that causes tooth decay leading to cavities. Any carbohydrate eaten can trigger the rotting process. That includes sugar as well as rice, potatoes, bread, fruits, and vegetables. In addition, many types of acidic juices can lead to decay directly leading to cavities.

Myth3: Once the decayed tooth is treated, the decay stops

Fact

After a decayed tooth is professionally cleaned and the cavity filled, the decay at the spot is completely arrested. However, if one does not take care of the teeth as advised by the oral health professionals, especially controlling the frequency of sweet snacks intakes, new cavities may develop next to the filling or even around it.

Myth4:  Spaces in between teeth lead to tooth decay and/or cavities

Fact

Larger spaces between teeth make cleaning between teeth easier. Therefore, as long as food remnants do not get stuck in the gaps and attract bacteria to feed on it producing acid, larger spaces between teeth are less likely to lead to tooth/decay or cavities. However, an eye should be kept on the small spaces between teeth. Foods may get stuck there and lead to issues like bad breath, gum infection and even decay or cavities in the long run.

Myth5: Sensitivity in teeth means an individual has a decay

Fact: Although cavities may cause some sensitivities to cold, hot and sweets, not all do. Sensitive teeth can be caused by the following dental issues: worn tooth enamel from using a hard toothbrush and using a hard grip while brushing aggressively. Tooth erosion due to highly acidic foods like lime, lemon and unripe mangoes as well as acidic beverages.

Myth6: Baby’s teeth cannot get cavities

Fact: Baby teeth can get cavities that spread to other teeth if left unattended. In Tanzania, available research findings indicate that 2 to 13% of children aged 1 to 4 years and ¼ to ⅔ of the children aged 3 to 7 years have dental decay.

Myth7:  All dental fillings require replacement

Fact: There are two types of dental fillings, namely temporary and permanent dental fillings. Both types do have a life expectancy, but all depends on one’s tooth wear rate and oral hygiene practices. If regular oral health checkups are maintained, permanent dental fillings are everlasting.

Myths8: An aspirin tablet next to a painful tooth will help relieve toothache

Fact: An individual has to swallow the aspirin tablet to relieve the toothache or pain from the gums. Since aspirin is acidic, it could burn your gum tissue and cause a painful raw ulcer if one places the tablet next to a tooth.

The author is a lecturer of Dentistry at Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences.