It can be easy to get out of practice with your dental care routine. But when it’s time to visit the dentist, you may still feel the need to stretch the truth and say you’ve been brushing twice a day and flossing regularly. Well, you should know that your dentist in Tukwila knows you’re not being honest. Keep reading to learn what 4 lies your dentist knows you’re telling.
The Lie: “I rarely drink soda.”
The Truth: If this is a lie you’ve told, it’s very likely that your eroded enamel has given you away. Many school science experiments have shown how corrosive the phosphoric acid found in soft drinks can be. For example: after placing a dull, tarnished penny in a cup of cola for one day, the tarnish has been eaten away, and your penny looks shiny and new. Soda has the exact same effect on your enamel; however, you’re left with dull teeth, exposed dentin and tooth decay rather than shiny white teeth.
The Lie: “I floss every day!”
The Truth: Flossing removes the plaque and bacteria that sits between your teeth and below your gum line. Brushing can remove quite a bit, but it’s the combination of brushing and flossing that helps keep your teeth in good condition. If you have red, swollen gums, it is definitely clear that either you’re not flossing properly or you’re not doing it as often as you say you are.
The Lie: “I don’t smoke.”
The Truth: There are many telltale signs of tobacco use that are easy for your dentist to identify. Staining may not always appear on the outer surfaces of your teeth, but it definitely shows up on the inner surfaces. Another sign is that the gums of a smoker may be irritated by the chemicals from a cigarette, and they often recede faster than those of a non-smoker.
The Lie: “It doesn’t hurt.”
The Truth: It has been said that the eyes tell all. When it comes to this lie, it is very much the truth. When you experience pain, your eyes will naturally squint or flinch. Other signs that you are experiencing pain may include the balling of fists and tightening of the body. If something hurts, it’s important to let your dentist know right away. They may be able to provide you with an anesthetic to make your treatment as painless as possible.
One thing is for sure: your oral health doesn’t lie. And to be honest, neither should you. Being honest with your dentist means less stress and more personalized dental care for your smile. Your dentist isn’t there to judge you; their main goal is to help you have beautiful, healthy teeth.
About the Author
Having studied specialties like dental implants and cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Lance Timmerman has spent many years giving Seattle residents a reason to smile. He has many accreditations from prominent organizations, including a mastership from the Academy of General Dentistry, a fellowship with The International Academy of Facial Aesthetics and more. If you’re looking for a dentist you can build an honest, trustworthy dental plan with, visit the website or contact the office at (206) 241-5533 to schedule a visit today!
