Surprising truths behind some old-school dental advice
In our last post, we cleared up some of the most common dental myths that need debunking—the ones that sound helpful but can actually harm your teeth.
But today, we’re flipping the script!
Because believe it or not, a few so-called “myths” that get passed around by parents, grandparents, and even the internet are actually pretty accurate—or at least, grounded in a bit of truth. 🦷💬
Let’s take a look at the dental “myths” that are worth listening to.
🍎 1. “An apple a day keeps the dentist away.”
Okay, maybe not completely—but apples do help! Their natural crunchiness stimulates saliva (which neutralizes acid and washes away food particles) and can even help scrub tooth surfaces.
Just rinse with water afterward, since apples are still acidic.
🍬 2. “Chewing gum is good for your teeth.”
Yes—if it’s sugar-free and preferably contains xylitol! This type of gum helps fight cavity-causing bacteria and boost saliva, which keeps your mouth cleaner between brushes.
Chewing gum after meals can be a great on-the-go oral care habit.
👅 3. “You should brush your tongue.”
Definitely! Your tongue harbors bacteria that contribute to bad breath and plaque buildup. A quick tongue brushing or tongue scraper can do wonders for freshness and hygiene.
💧 4. “Fluoride is important for healthy teeth.”
True and essential. Fluoride helps rebuild weakened enamel and makes teeth more resistant to decay. Whether it’s in your toothpaste or your tap water, it’s one of your smile’s best friends.
❤️ 5. “Gum disease can affect your overall health.”
Absolutely. Research has linked gum disease with heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues. Taking care of your gums is about more than just your smile—it’s an important part of whole-body health.
👵 6. “You can be too old to get cavities.”
Surprise—this one’s backwards! In reality, older adults are more likely to get cavities, especially around the roots of teeth or old dental work. Lifelong dental care matters at every age.
🩺 7. “Your mouth reflects your overall health.”
Yes—it’s like a mirror to the rest of your body. Dentists can often spot signs of systemic conditions, like nutritional deficiencies, infections, or even autoimmune disorders, just by looking in your mouth.
💡 Final Thoughts
Some dental tips your nan told you might’ve sounded odd, but turns out—there’s wisdom behind a few of them! The key is knowing what’s helpful, what’s outdated, and what might need a little clarification.
At our practice, we’re always happy to talk teeth (and bust or confirm a myth or two!).
🪥 Got a dental myth you’re not sure about?
Let’s talk about it! Ask us at your next visit—or reach out any time. We’re here to help you stay informed, healthy, and confident in your smile.
📞 Call us on 07 3870 1300 | 💻 Book online | 💬 Message us anytime via email at reception@absolutedentalcare.com.au